CHAPTER 519

S.P. 621 - L.D. 1689

An Act To Provide Reciprocal Authority to New Hampshire

Marine Patrol Officers To Investigate Potential

Terrorist Activities in Maine Waters

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, New Hampshire grants Maine marine patrol officers the authority to enter New Hampshire waters of the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor to help secure New Hampshire from possible terrorist activities; and

Whereas, New Hampshire marine patrol officers must be able to work cooperatively with Maine marine patrol officers in Maine waters of the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor to help secure Maine from possible terrorist activities; and

Whereas, New Hampshire marine patrol officers currently have no authority to aid Maine marine patrol officers in the investigation and prevention of possible terrorist activities in Maine waters of the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor; 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 enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows: