01-001-135 Me. Code R. § IV

Current through 2024-44, October 30, 2024
Section 001-135-IV - Methods for Establishing Official Standards
A. Where a marketing order exists
1. For all commodities subject to a State or Federal marketing order which provides for standard minimum grades, for mandatory use of the State of Maine Quality Trademark, and for mandatory inspection, any producer subject to the order is eligible to apply for a license to use the State of Maine Quality Trademark.
2. For all commodities subject to a State or Federal marketing order which provides for standard minimum grades, but not for mandatory use of the State of Maine Quality Trademark, or for mandatory inspection or for both, any producer subject to the order and willing to use mandatory inspection may apply for a license to use the State of Maine Quality Trademark.
B. Where a marketing order does not exist
1. When a commodity is packed to standards that meet or exceed the existing, U.S. No. 1, U.S. Grade A, USDA Choice, Category I (CAT.1) standards, established measurable industry or equivalent Maine standards, then any producer of that commodity is eligible to apply for a license to use the State of Maine Quality Trademark so long as established industry standards are complied with and have been designated as eligible for use with the State of Maine Quality Trademark through rulemaking proceedings.
2. For commodities with no marketing order or quality standards in effect, three or more interested individuals may request a rulemaking hearing to establish standards for use of the State of Maine Quality Trademark. After the standards are promulgated, any producer of that commodity may apply for a license to use the State of Maine Quality Trademark.

01-001 C.M.R. ch. 135, § IV