Maine Legislative Document 1499, “An Act to Protect Confidential Consumer Records in Self-Service Storage Facilities,” has been passed by the Business Research and Economic Development Committee. The Maine Self Storage Association (MeSSA) has worked with the state legislature to craft and amend this new bill pertaining to the handling of third-party personal records in self-storage.
 
After a recent review of the bill, the BRED Committee asked MeSSA to work with the Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection to agree on appropriate language regarding self-storage operation and leases as well as the association’s stance on the bill. After some legislators expressed concern about the bill, amendments were made, after which it passed the committee unanimously. The outcome of this bill was much more favorable than we had hoped for. MeSSA appreciates the help from two legislators in particular with regard to the last minute changes: Representative Jayne Crosby Giles and Representative Susan M.W. Austin. We also appreciate the help and guidance of our lobbyist, Ron Collins. The bill was signed by Gov. Baldacci on March 22, 2010 and is now in effect. MeSSA members have access to this new language in the "MEMBERS ONLY" section of the website.