K. One member with expertise in equine care; and

L. One member with expertise in livestock representing a statewide farming organization.; and

M.__One member representing a State-based animal advocacy group.

In making the appointment of the veterinarian member, the Governor shall consider nominations made by the Maine Veterinary Medical Association.

Sec. 5. 7 MRSA §3909, sub-§3, as enacted by PL 1999, c. 254, §2, is repealed.

Sec. 6. 7 MRSA §3909, sub-§3-A is enacted to read:

3-A.__Humane agents; training requirements.__Continuing employment of a humane agent hired after October 1, 2003 is contingent upon the successful completion by that agent of a 100- hour service training program at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy or a nationally recognized training program on investigation and enforcement of animal welfare laws and the successful completion of an examination on state animal welfare laws and rules adopted pursuant to this Part.

A humane agent shall complete training in the handling of small and large animals and a minimum of 40 hours of training each year, including a combination of classroom and hands-on training.

Sec. 7. 7 MRSA c. 720 is amended by repealing the chapter headnote and enacting the following in its place:

CHAPTER 720

RABIES PREVENTION FOR CATS AND SHELTER PROVISIONS

Sec. 8. 7 MRSA §3919-A, as enacted by PL 2001, c. 363, §3, is amended to read:

§3919-A. Procedure for acceptance and disposition of cats by

animal shelter

An animal shelter to which a cat is taken may accept the cat unless the shelter is in quarantine. An animal shelter accepting a cat shall comply with the provisions of this section.