In developing and proposing a rule for adoption, the agency involved shall utilize approaches which will accomplish the objectives of applicable statutes while minimizing any adverse economic impact of the proposed rule on small businesses of different types and of differing sizes. Consistent with the objectives of applicable statutes, the agency shall utilize such approaches as:

a. The establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements or timetables that take into account the resources available to small businesses;

b. The use of performance rather than design standards; and

c. An exemption from coverage by the rule, or by any part thereof, for small businesses so long as the public health, safety, or general welfare is not endangered.

L. 1986, c. 169, s. 3, eff. Dec. 4, 1986.