AUGUSTA -- The tightening credit market is affecting small-business owners in Maine who are seeking to expand, a legislative committee learned today.

The Legislature's Business, Research and Economic Development Committee heard from several business owners during a hearing on credit availability in Maine.

The committee also heard from banking groups and other lenders, such as the Finance Authority of Maine and the Maine Technology Institute.

They said Maine's lending community is fairing well, largely because of the conservative nature of that sector in this state.

Rachel Crommett, owner of a Vassalboro hunting guide service, said she has been unable to get a $350,000 loan to buy a similar business in The Forks, a town near Jackman where the Kennebec and Dead rivers meet.

"I was specifically told, if (I had) applied nine months ago, I would have gotten it by now," Crommett said.

The committee is expected to meet through this afternoon.

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