§ 23 §1901 — Legislative findings

The Legislature of this State makes the following findings of fact.
1.
Tourist industry.
A large and increasing number of tourists has been coming to Maine and, as a result, the tourist industry is one of the important sources of income for Maine citizens, with an increasing number of persons directly or indirectly dependent upon the tourist industry for their livelihood.
2.
Information discrimination.
Very few convenient means exist in the State to provide information on available public accommodations, commercial services for the traveling public and other lawful businesses and points of scenic, historic, cultural, educational and religious interest. Provision of those facilities can be a major factor in encouraging the development of the tourist industry in Maine.
3.
Scenic resources.
Scenic resources of great value are distributed throughout the State, and have contributed greatly to its economic development by attracting tourists, permanent and part-time residents and new industries and cultural facilities.
4.
Preservation of scenic resources.
The scattering of outdoor advertising throughout the State is detrimental to the preservation of those scenic resources, and so to the economic base of the State, and is also not an effective method of providing information to tourists about available facilities.
5.
Proliferation of outdoor advertising.
The proliferation in number, size and manner of outdoor advertising is hazardous to highway users.

Legislative History

PL 1977, c. 494, §1 (NEW). PL 1981, c. 318, §1 (RPR).