Maine § 3950-A. - Official refusal or neglect of duty
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 3950-A. — Official refusal or neglect of duty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3950-A.. Official refusal or neglect of duty
1. Violation. A mayor, municipal officer, clerk, town or city manager, administrative assistant to the mayor, town or city councilor, dog recorder of unorganized territories, constable, police officer, sheriff or animal control officer commits a civil violation if that person refuses or intentionally fails to perform the duties imposed by:
A. This chapter; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §21 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
B. Chapter 719; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §21 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
C. Chapter 720; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §21 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
D. Chapter 721; [PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. B, §21 (NEW); PL 2003, c. 452, Pt. X, §2 (AFF).]
E. [PL 2025, c. 414, §18 (RP).]
F. Chapter 727; or [PL 2025, c. 414, §19 (AMD).]
G. Chapter 723. [PL 2025, c. 414, §20 (NEW).]
2. Penalty. A person who violates subsection 1 commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $50 and not more than $500 and costs may be adjudged and, for an animal control officer, revocation of that person's certification as an animal control officer may be imposed.
3. Investigation. The commissioner, at the commissioner's own instance or upon written complaint made to the commissioner by another person, shall investigate an alleged refusal or neglect of duty by a municipal officer.
4. Prosecution. The commissioner shall direct proceedings, actions and prosecutions to be instituted to enforce all laws relating to animals and to the liability of municipal officers and their agents for failure, neglect or refusal to comply with the laws relating to animals.
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 3950-A.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 3950-A. cover?
Section 3950-A. ("Official refusal or neglect of duty") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 3950-A.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 3950-A." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 3950-A. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.