12 M.R.S. §8867-G: Forest certification programs

1. Requirements for state land. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may obtain or maintain certification from a forest certification program for state land only if the program, in order to obtain certification under the program:

A. Contains performance-based indicators described in subsection 2 that protect forest workers, including logging and trucking contractors, that can be assessed and verified by a recognized certifying entity; and

B. Does not require payment to a trade association that is registered with the Commission on Governmental Ethics and Election Practices.

2. Performance-based indicators. Performance-based indicators required by subsection 1 include the following labor practices:

A. No use of child labor;

B. No use of forced labor;

C. No discrimination;

D. Freedom of association and collective bargaining;

E. Promotion of gender equality;

F. Implementation of legal occupational health and safety practices;

G. Payment of fair wages that meet or exceed the minimum wage;

H. Adequate and effective training; and

I. Grievance resolution and compensation for damages.