THIS INFORMATION IS NOW OUTDATED; the customer capacity limits were updated 6/15. MGFPA worked diligently with the administration to increase the number of customers allowed in our grocery stores. This afternoon, updated tiers were issued and are effective immediately. Formal legal guidance will be posted but we have been given the green light to move forward with these new numbers. Click to read the updated tiers PDF.
Maine’s bag ban law will be delayed until January 15, 2021. The state also occupies the field of regulation starting March 17, 2020. What that means is that current state law has no plastic bag bans or fees at retail. Retailers can use whatever bags are necessary and not have to collect fees during this crisis.
To view the Maine Department of Environmental Protection’s statement, visit their website.
The Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association is actively working with our government partners and members to provide an updated list of resources and guidance in response to COVID-19. We’ve compiled a list of up-to-date resources. We will continue to add information as it is received.
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) and 211 Maine announced on March 11th a new option for Mainers to get answers to questions about the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) at any time. This service is available by dialing 211 (or 1-866-811-5695), texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or emailing info@211maine.org.
SAN DIEGO, CA – February 24th, 2020 – Nicole Cote, of Hannaford Supermarkets in Bar Harbor, won the National Grocers Association’s 2020 Best Bagger Championship and a grand prize of $10,000. Nicole defeated more than 20 other contestants from across the country.
Update: As of January 15th, 2020 the FDA has released an additional statement. On December 20, 2019, the President signed legislation to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and raise the federal minimum age of sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. It is now illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco product – including cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes – to anyone under 21. FDA will provide additional details on this issue as they become available.
For more information, visit: FDA.gov
