Whereas, important policy decisions concerning children's education are under consideration by policymakers; and

Whereas, an evaluation of the Maine Education Assessment will provide necessary information to these policymakers; and

Whereas, this evaluation must take place in a timely manner; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Commission to Study the Maine Education Assessment, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Commission membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of the following 12 members:

1. Six Legislators appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House; and

2. Six members, none of whom may be officers or employees of the Department of Education, appointed by the Governor; and be it further

Sec. 3. Appointments; meetings; chair. Resolved: That all appointments must be made no later than 10 days following the effective date of this resolve. Upon making their appointments, the appointing authorities shall notify the Executive Director of the Legislative Council, who shall call and convene the first meeting of the commission no later than August 15, 1999. At the first meeting, the commission shall select a chair from among its members; and be it further

Sec. 4. Duties. Resolved: That the commission shall study the construction, implementation, administration, grading and costs and the impact on the length of the school year of the Maine Education Assessment; and be it further