Maine § 4554. - Construction
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 4554. — Construction, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4554.. Construction
1. Relationship to other laws. Nothing in this Act may be construed to invalidate or limit the remedies, rights and procedures of any law of any state or political subdivision of any state or jurisdiction that provides greater or equal protection for the rights of individuals with disabilities than are afforded by this Act. Nothing in this Act may be construed to preclude the prohibition of, or the imposition of restrictions on, smoking in places of employment covered by subchapter III or in transportation or places of public accommodation covered by subchapter V.
2. Insurance. Subchapters III and V of this Act may not be construed to prohibit or restrict, with regard to individuals with disabilities:
A. An insurer, hospital, medical service company, health maintenance organization or any agent or entity that administers benefit plans or similar organizations from underwriting risks, classifying risks or administering risks that are based on or not inconsistent with state law; [PL 1995, c. 393, §9 (NEW).]
B. A person or organization covered by this Act from establishing, sponsoring, observing or administering the terms of a bona fide benefit plan that are based on underwriting risks, classifying risks or administering risks that are based on or not inconsistent with state law; or [PL 1995, c. 393, §9 (NEW).]
C. A person or organization covered by this Act from establishing, sponsoring, observing or administering the terms of a bona fide employee benefit plan that is not subject to state laws that regulate insurance. [PL 1995, c. 393, §9 (NEW).]
Paragraphs A, B and C may not be used as a subterfuge to evade the requirements of subchapters III and V.
3. Accommodations and services. Nothing in this Act may be construed to require an individual with a disability to accept an accommodation, aid, service, opportunity or benefit that the individual chooses not to accept.
4. Physical or mental disability. The definition of "physical or mental disability" in section 4553‑A is intended to be interpreted broadly to create greater coverage than under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 4554.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 4554. cover?
Section 4554. ("Construction") 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 § 4554.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 4554." (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 § 4554. 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.