Part A of this bill establishes the Consumer and Commercial Division pilot project within the Maine court system beginning January 1, 2006. The purpose of this division is to administer and resolve disputes regarding issues related to business activity in a coordinated, responsive and speedy manner and to afford convenient and timely access for consumers, entrepreneurs, attorneys and any other party involved with business activity. Under the pilot project, the small claims division will be under the jurisdiction of the Consumer and Commercial Division in an attempt to streamline resolution of matters currently heard by it.

Part B of the bill establishes the Consumer and Commercial Division Steering Committee. The steering committee is designed to function as a partnership between the legislative and judicial branches of government. The steering committee, with membership reflecting a spectrum of interests, will work to develop proposals to implement this new project, determine relevant measurable outcomes and determine other areas of technology or infrastructure that could add additional efficiencies throughout Maine courts.