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Preserving Maine's History

Records Management Advice

Basics of Records Management

 

Purpose: Provide guidance to state government agencies regarding the importance of preserving the archival records of the State of Maine.

The purpose of the Maine State Archives is to make the operations of state and local government more efficient, more effective and more economical through records management. The Archives does this by preserving the permanent historical records of Maine and providing access to the public.

Managing Your Records

Records Management Advice

Basics of Records Management

 

Purpose: Provide guidance to state government employees on how to properly manage the records within their agency.

Title 5 §95 requires that all state government records be covered by retention schedules. This includes records that never leave the creating agency's custody. A records schedule describes agency records, establishes a period for their retention by the agency, and provides mandatory instructions for what to do with them when they are no longer needed for current government business.

Four Steps to Better File Management

Records Management Advice

Basics of Records Management

Purpose: Provide guidance to state government agencies on four simple steps to assist with better file management.

There are a number of valid reasons for creating files, such as statutory requirements, regulation, management reporting, and program administration. It is important to concentrate on the files that directly support your agency?s mission.

Four Steps to Better Files

IRS 990 Filings for Certain Nonprofit Corporations

A public charity called Philanthropic Research, Inc. maintains a website that provides information for and about nonprofit corporations, including a copy of the IRS Form 990, which must be filed by public charities with income of $25,000 or more, as well as private foundations, regardless of income.

If you wish to search for a specific nonprofit corporation, please visit the website of Philanthropic Research, Inc. at www.guidestar.org.

Bureau of Motor Vehicles to Begin Issuing New Pine Tree License Plate on May 1, 2025

Augusta, ME — Beginning May 1, 2025, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will introduce a new state license plate design — the Pine Tree Plate — impacting the majority of Maine residents.

"The Chickadee plates are in rough shape given their age, so we’re excited to roll out the first new standard license plate design in over 25 years starting May 1,” said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. “Mainers have design options — a classic design or a new Pine Tree plate — and they can make their choice online, in person, or by mail depending on what’s best for them.” 

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