LD1408

Establishes a 2-part test for courts to follow when reviewing agency interpretations of statutes and rules.

This bill codifies judicial deference to agency interpretation of statutes and rules that agencies administer. It establishes a 2-part test for courts to follow when reviewing an agency's interpretation. If the statute or rule is unambiguous, the court must give effect to its plain meaning. If the language is ambiguous, the court must defer to the agency's interpretation if it is within the agency's expertise and is reasonable. The provisions do not exclude or limit any other appropriate exercise of judicial deference to agency judgment or expertise.