Becoming a registered Maine guide or retaining a guide license could get even tougher, if the state has its way.
On Wednesday, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife opened a 30-day comment period on its proposal to prevent people convicted of felony or misdemeanor crimes from becoming licensed guides.
“There was a feeling by the Guides Advisory Board that this should have been done a long time ago,” said department spokeswoman Andrea Erskine on Wednesday afternoon in Augusta.
The department is required by law to establish safety standards to provide clients of guides reasonable protection from hazards.
“Currently, the standards do not include an assessment of an individual’s criminal history,” she said.
Under the proposed amendment, applicants would certify that they have not been convicted of the following crimes in Maine or in any other state or jurisdiction:
• Class A or B felony – any person who has been so convicted will not be able to apply for a Maine guide license.
• Class C felony, if convicted within the last 10 years.
• Class D or E misdemeanor, if convicted within the last three years.
Additionally, any licensed Maine guide or anyone eligible for a Maine guide license, who is convicted of or committed any of these crimes within the specified times, would immediately become ineligible for the guide license.
Under the amendment, applicants would be required to sign a form allowing the department to conduct criminal history checks.
“These guidelines would apply to currently licensed guides, who would be subject to license revocation,” Erskine said.
The proposal also repeals competency provisions addressed under the Americans With Disabilities Act and other statutes.
No public hearings are scheduled on the matter, but one could be requested.
Erskine said she expects the amendment to become effective in early February.
To comment or receive more information, people can contact Erskine at 287-5201 or by mail at: Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, No. 41 State House Station, 284 State St., Augusta, ME 04333-0041.
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