Whereas, states such as Texas and Missouri have brought millions of dollars into their economies through environmental tourism that includes sites catering to nongame enthusiasts such as birders; and

Whereas, the Federal Government has granted money to the states, including Maine, to promote such tourism; and

Whereas, Maine has a superior natural environment particularly attractive to environmental tourists and excursion tourism; and

Whereas, environmental tourists have been shown in repeated studies to have more disposable income than the average citizen; and

Whereas, environmental features can be particularly important factors in business recruitment and attraction; and

Whereas, this resolve establishes the Commission to Promote Jobs and Economic Development through Ecotourism; and

Whereas, this resolve is necessary as an emergency measure to afford adequate time for the issues to be appropriately addressed by the commission; and

Whereas, the study must be initiated before the 90-day period expires in order that the study may be completed and a report submitted in time for submission to the next legislative session; 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 Promote Jobs and Economic Development through Ecotourism, referred to in this resolve as "the commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Commission membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of 20 members appointed as follows:

1. Three members of the Senate, appointed by the President