Sec. 1. 23 MRSA §1201-A is enacted to read:

§1201-A.__Logo signs on turnpike system

1.__Logo signs authorized. The Maine Turnpike Authority may authorize the placement of logo signs within the right-of-way of the Maine Turnpike according to the following provisions.

A.__A logo sign may not be larger than existing service information signs permitted on the Maine Turnpike.

B.__Logo signs may be installed only on portions of the Maine Turnpike that are rural in character.

C.__Applications from at least 3 qualified businesses must be approved before installation of a logo sign panel at an exit.

D.__A logo sign may include only logos for gas, food, lodging and camping. Logos for 2 or more types of service may be displayed on the same sign panel.__More than one logo sign panel may be installed at an exit only when 3 or more qualified businesses are available for each of 2 or more types of service. The number of logo sign panels at an exit may not exceed one for each type of service or a total of 4 for all types of services.

2. Fees.__The Maine Turnpike Authority shall establish an initial fee for the production and placement of a logo sign and an annual fee to cover the maintenance costs.__Fees charged must approximate direct costs.

3. Rules.__The Maine Turnpike Authority shall adopt rules to regulate the size, shape, manner and location of logo signs.__The rules must describe the procedure for applying to the Maine Turnpike Authority for permission to erect a logo sign and the criteria used by the Maine Turnpike Authority to select among applicants.__Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are major substantive rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

SUMMARY

This bill authorizes the Maine Turnpike Authority to install logo signs on the Maine Turnpike and directs the Maine Turnpike Authority to adopt major substantive rules to establish application and installation procedures.