Table of Contents
Maine House of Representatives
2 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0002
Tel. (207) 287-1400
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Second Regular Session - Seventh Legislative Day
The House Calendar
The Advance Journal and Calendar of the House of Representatives
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.
Prayer by Reverend Donna Dolham, Unitarian Universalist Community Church, Augusta.
National Anthem by Sharon Hood, Pittsfield.
Pledge of Allegiance.
Medical Provider of the Day, Kevin Fickenscher, MD, Kittery Point.
Reading of the Journal of Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
_________________________________
(2-1) The Following Communication: (H.C. 361)
STATE OF MAINE
SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT
February 5, 2026
Hon. Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Hon. Ryan D. Fecteau
Speaker of the House
2 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0002
Re: State of the Judiciary
Greetings,
Thank you for your invitation of January 30, 2026. Please be advised that I am pleased to accept your invitation and will be in attendance to address the Joint Session of the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Maine Legislature on February 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. concerning the State of the Judiciary.
Very truly yours,
S/Valerie Stanfill
Chief Justice
_________________________________
(2-2) The Following Communication: (H.C. 362)
SENATE OF MAINE
132ND LEGISLATURE
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
February 11, 2026
Honorable Robert B. Hunt
Clerk of the House
2 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt,
Pursuant to my authority under Title 23, MRSA, Chapter 304, §3036, I am pleased to appoint Amanda Meader of Winthrop to the Abandoned and Discontinued Roads Commission, effective immediately.
On this board, she will serve as a member of the commission from a statewide association with expertise in abandoned and discontinued roads or real estate.
If you have any questions regarding this appointment, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate
_________________________________
(2-3) The Following Communication: (H.C. 363)
STATE OF MAINE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
SPEAKER'S OFFICE
AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 12, 2026
Honorable Robert B. Hunt
Clerk of the House
2 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt:
Please be advised that pursuant to her authority, Governor Janet T. Mills has nominated the following:
on February 11, 2026
Andrew K. Lizotte, Esq. of Dover-Foxcroft for appointment as a Judge of the Maine District Court.
Pursuant to Article V, Part First, §8, of the Maine Constitution, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary.
The Honorable Sean Ociepka of Belfast for appointment as a Justice of the Maine Superior Court.
Pursuant to Article V, Part First, §8, of the Maine Constitution, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary.
The Honorable Harold L. Stewart, II of Bangor for appointment as an Active Retired Justice of the Maine Superior Court.
Pursuant to Article V, Part First, §8, of the Maine Constitution, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau
Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-4) The Following Communication: (S.C. 805)
MAINE SENATE
132ND LEGISLATURE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 10, 2026
Honorable Ryan Fecteau
Speaker of the House
2 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0002
Dear Speaker Fecteau:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A. §158 and Joint Rule 506 of the 132nd Maine Legislature, please be advised that the Senate today confirmed the following nominations:
Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry:
· Timothy D. Drake of China for reappointment to the Maine Milk Commission,
· William J. Randall of Palmyra for appointment to the Maine Milk Commission.
Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources:
· Brooke E. Barnes of Harpswell for appointment to the Board of Environmental Protection,
· Eileen Bader Hall of Veazie for appointment to the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board,
· Erin E. Merrill of Cornville for reappointment to the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund Board.
Best Regards,
S/Darek M. Grant
Secretary of the Senate
_________________________________
PETITIONS, BILLS AND RESOLVES REQUIRING REFERENCE
(3-1) Bill "An Act Making Supplemental Appropriations and Allocations from the General Fund and Other Funds for the Expenditures of State Government and Changing Certain Provisions of the Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government for the Fiscal Years Ending June 30, 2026 and June 30, 2027" (EMERGENCY)
(H.P. 1491) (L.D. 2212)
Sponsored by Representative GATTINE of Westbrook. (GOVERNOR'S BILL)
Committee on APPROPRIATIONS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS suggested and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(3-2) Bill "An Act Making Supplemental Allocations from the Highway Fund and Other Funds for the Expenditures of State Government and Changing Certain Provisions of the Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government for the Fiscal Years Ending June 30, 2026 and June 30, 2027" (EMERGENCY)
(H.P. 1492) (L.D. 2213)
Sponsored by Representative CRAFTS of Newcastle. (GOVERNOR'S BILL)
Committee on TRANSPORTATIONsuggested and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(4-1) On motion of Representative PAUL of Winterport, the following Joint Resolution: (H.P. 1485) (Cosponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook and Representatives: BAGSHAW of Windham, CIMINO of Bridgton, COLLINS of Sidney, HAGGAN of Hampden, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SMITH of Palermo, SOBOLESKI of Phillips, WHITE of Guilford) (Approved for introduction by a majority of the Legislative Council pursuant to Joint Rule 214)
JOINT RESOLUTION TO HONOR THE LIFE, FAITH, LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY OF CHARLES “CHARLIE” JAMES KIRK
WHEREAS,Charles “Charlie” James Kirk, born October 14, 1993, was a courageous American patriot and faithful Christian whose life was tragically and unjustly cut short in an act of political violence on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk made the decision to follow Jesus Christ as a young person and boldly lived out his faith with conviction, courage and compassion, grounding his life and work in daily devotion to Scripture, prayer and the Gospel message; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk was a devoted husband to his wife Erika, and a loving father to their daughter and son, exemplifying the virtues of faith, fidelity and fatherhood; and
WHEREAS, at 18 years of age, Charlie Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012, which grew to more than 3,500 campus chapters and over 250,000 members nationwide, mobilizing young Americans to embrace fiscal responsibility, free markets, limited government and the blessings of liberty; and
WHEREAS, through his leadership, Turning Point USA helped register and mobilize more than 125,000 new voters in the 2024 election, narrowing the youth voter gap and shaping civic engagement among the next generation; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk became one of the most prominent Christian voices in America, engaging in civil discourse on college campuses, media platforms and national forums, always seeking to elevate truth, defend Biblical values and strengthen the Republic; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk’s journey of faith was deepened by his study of Scripture and by life-changing experiences such as his 2018 pilgrimage to the Holy Land, which inspired his unapologetic commitment to proclaiming Christ and mentoring others to do the same; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk embodied the values of the First Amendment, exercising his right to speak freely, challenge prevailing narratives and stand as a model of conviction with respect for his fellow Americans; and
WHEREAS, his assassination is not only a heinous act of violence but also a sobering reminder of the rising dangers of political extremism and hatred in our society, which threaten the peace, liberty and civility essential to a healthy civic order; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk’s death must not divide us further but instead serve as a call to recommit ourselves to dialogue, respect and the timeless American principles of liberty governed by truth; and
WHEREAS, Charlie Kirk would not have us respond with despair, but with renewed purpose to speak truth with courage, to stand firm in faith, to seek unity without compromising conviction and to live out the values he championed: faith, family and freedom; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this opportunity:
1. To condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the assassination of Charles “Charlie” James Kirk and all forms of political violence;
2. To extend our deepest condolences and prayers to Charlie Kirk’s family, including his wife, Erika, and their children;
3. To honor the life, faith, leadership and legacy of Charlie Kirk, whose example inspired a generation to cherish liberty and stand firm in their faith; and
4. To call upon all Americans, regardless of party or creed, to reject political violence, recommit to respectful debate, uphold American values and recognize one another as fellow citizens.
_________________________________
(4-2) On motion of Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston, the following House Order: (H.O. 40)
ORDERED, that Representative Ann Fredericks of Sanford be excused Feb 3 for health reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Grayson B. Lookner of Portland be excused Feb 3 for personal reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Nathan J. Wadsworth of Hiram be excused Jan 13 for personal reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Sophia B. Warren of Scarborough be excused Jan 20 for health reasons and Feb 3 for personal reasons.
_________________________________
SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR
In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items:
Recognizing:
(5-1) Dan Ladner, of Presque Isle, on his retirement as Conductor of the Caribou Choral Society, Aroostook County's largest community chorus. For nearly 50 years, Mr. Ladner has been leading the group, which has included voices from across Aroostook County and New Brunswick, Canada. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1551)
(5-2) Gail Campbell, of Crystal, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1552)
(5-3) Kim Smith, of Presque Isle, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1553)
(5-4) Vaughn Martin, of Easton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1554)
(5-5) Robert A. Wake, of Windham, General Counsel of the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Bureau of Insurance, on his retirement after 36 years in state government, including 32 years with the bureau. In 2006, Mr. Wake was awarded the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Robert Dineen Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1555)
(5-6) the Bangor High School Speech Team, which placed first at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1556)
(5-7) Beatrix Foster, of Bangor, who won first place in the Lincoln-Douglas Varsity Debate at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1557)
(5-8) Tobias Kennedy, of Bangor, who won first place in the Humorous Interpretation Event at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1558)
(5-9) Sarah Wallace, of Bangor, who won first place in the Program Oral Interpretation Event at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1559)
(5-10) Jackson Woodworth, of Bangor, who won first place in the Novice Poetry Reading and Storytelling Events at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1560)
(5-11) the late Kevin Howell, of Carmel, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service;
(SLS 1561)
(5-12) Becky Moore, of Hampden, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1562)
(5-13) Todd Moore, of Hampden, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1563)
(5-14) Rubyann and Raymond Wade, of Hampden, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1564)
(5-15) Thomas Copeland, of Holden, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1565)
(5-16) Jim and Judy Carll, of Waterboro, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1566)
(5-17) Victor and Roxy Wright, of Waterboro, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1567)
(5-18) Arlene Carroll, of Alfred, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1568)
(5-19) Don and Diane Holden, of Waterboro, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1569)
(5-20) Brenda Rogers, of Lisbon Falls, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1570)
(5-21) Eric Farrenkopf, of Greene, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1571)
(5-22) the Wales Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1572)
(5-23) the Fayette Central School Staff, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1573)
(5-24) Misty Coolidge, of New Gloucester, who was crowned Mrs. USA at the International Ms. USA Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1574)
(5-25) SAPPI North America, of Skowhegan, which has been named Large Business of the Year by the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1575)
(5-26) Angela Michie, of Buxton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1576)
(5-27) John "Jack" Rogala, of Hollis, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1577)
(5-28) Apex Youth Connection, of Biddeford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1578)
(5-29) the Hollis Town Manager Hiring Committee, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1579)
(5-30) Kevin Flinner, of Hollis, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1580)
(5-31) Chloe Sarnicki, of Bangor, who won first place in the Oral Interpretation of Literature Event at the Maine State Speech and Debate Championship Tournament. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1581)
(5-32) Florence Reed, of Surry, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1582)
(5-33) James Witham, of Bar Harbor, a member of the Mount Desert Island High School boys basketball team, who recently scored his 1,000th career point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1583)
(5-34) Alfred Judd, of Surry, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 1584)
(5-35) the Hall-Dale High School Boys Soccer Team, of Farmingdale, which won the Class C State Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 545)
Presented by Representative SHAGOURY of Hallowell.
Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec, Representative MONTELL of Gardiner.
(5-36) Kiley LaFolette, of Dixfield, who was named Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Town of Dixfield for her work with The Dog Park at McGouldrick Park. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 546)
Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico.
Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-37) Cheryl Pratt, of Windsor, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 547)
Presented by Representative SMITH of Palermo.
Cosponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.
(5-38) Greg Sabins, of Somerville, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 548)
Presented by Representative SMITH of Palermo.
Cosponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.
(5-39) Eric Dedoes, of Somerville, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 549)
Presented by Representative SMITH of Palermo.
Cosponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.
(5-40) Lee Jackson, of Palermo, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 550)
Presented by Representative SMITH of Palermo.
Cosponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo.
(5-41) Megyn Mertens, of Wells, a member of the Wells High School girls basketball team, who recently scored her 1,000th career point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 551)
Presented by Representative FOLEY of Wells.
Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York, Representative RUNTE of York.
(5-42) Maureen Booth, of Bowdoinham, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 552)
Presented by Representative CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham.
Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc.
(5-43) Evelyn Young, of Bowdoin, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 553)
Presented by Representative CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham.
Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc, Representative WEBB of Durham.
(5-44) Patricia Osnoe, of Bowdoin, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 554)
Presented by Representative CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham.
Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc, Representative WEBB of Durham.
(5-45) Jess Davis, of Brownfield, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 555)
Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram.
Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-46) Thomas Klinepeter, of Fryeburg, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 556)
Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram.
Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-47) Donald E. Roach, of Peru, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 557)
Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico.
Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
In Memory of:
(5-48) Robert "Bobby" Davis, of Perry. For over 30 years, Mr. Davis taught physical education and health at Shead High School, serving the school and his community as a gym teacher, athletic director, basketball coach and referee. Mr. Davis will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1545)
(5-49) Howard T. Wills, of Boothbay Harbor. Mr. Wills served in the United States Army as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Army Division. In his early career, he worked on a large vegetable farm and later at a dairy farm in Maine. He went on to work as a machinist in a small shop in Rowley, Massachusetts, before he advanced to a position at Polaroid in Cambridge. He ultimately co-founded Naugler Engineering. He also fished as a lobsterman in both Massachusetts and Maine for over 50 years. Mr. Wills will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1546)
(5-50) Leonard Shedletsky, of Portland. Dr. Shedletsky earned his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois, conducting doctoral research as a Visiting Scholar in the Department of Psychology at Columbia University. After beginning his academic career at the University of Connecticut, he moved to Maine in 1979, where he taught at the University of Southern Maine in the Department of Communications for more than four decades and was promoted to full Professor in 1991. He published over 30 journal articles and six books, including his final book, Rationalist Bias in Communication Theory. He was an early innovator in using the internet in the classroom. Beginning in the 1990s, he helped train teachers and librarians in how to find and implement digital resources, and he was also an early adopter of online learning. Dr. Shedletsky will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1547)
(5-51) Keith Robert Edmonds, of Kennebunk. An X-ray Technologist, Mr. Edmonds first worked at Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta and then at Goodall Hospital in Sanford. In September 1979, he was hired by Pratt and Whitney Aircraft in North Berwick to x-ray jet engine parts. There, he worked his way up in the company. He retired from Pratt & Whitney as a Supplier Quality Engineer after 34 years in 2013, but then went back to work in 2014 at the same plant for Belcan Corporation as a Quality Engineer, retiring permanently in 2019. Over the years, he also worked part-time at several different restaurants and for his brother's catering business as chief cook. In the early 1990s, he was an instructor and coach at the Gunstock Ski Area in Laconia, New Hampshire, where he taught lessons on the weekends and coached a young snowboard racing team. He also coached several basketball and baseball teams over the years. Mr. Edmonds will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1548)
(5-52) Robert "Bob" Edmond Mittel, of Portland. Mr. Mittel was a veteran of the United States Army. Beginning in October 1968, he settled in Pownal and worked at Pine Tree Legal Assistance for 8 years. From 1976 to 2021, he practiced law in several small firms, initially as an associate of Loyall Sewall and Stuart White. He continued to work in public service until 2025, most recently as an eviction defense lawyer with the Volunteer Lawyers Project. Mr. Mittel will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1549)
(5-53) Henry "Hank" L.P. Schmelzer, of Somesville. Mr. Schmelzer was a veteran of the United States Army, having served in 1969 as a captain in Military Intelligence in Vietnam, where he earned a Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Vietnamese Cross for Gallantry. A lawyer, he had a career in corporate and securities law in Boston, where he became Vice President and Counsel of New England Mutual Life Insurance Company. From 1991 to 1998, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the former New England Mutual Funds group. In 1999, he began leading the Maine Community Foundation, where he worked until 2008, championing conservation and statewide initiatives, strengthening the county funds network and doubling the number of donors. In 2007, he was named the Mainebiz Business Leader of the Year. He was also a fellow at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government in 1999. A devoted member of the Mount Desert Island and Maine communities, he served on numerous boards, including College of the Atlantic, University of Maine Foundation, Maine Public Broadcasting Network and Friends of Acadia. Mr. Schmelzer will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1550)
(5-54) Heidi-Noel Grindle, of Surry. Mrs. Grindle had served Ellsworth as tax collector and assistant deputy treasurer before being appointed Ellsworth City Clerk in 2005. She served as Clerk until November 2021. She also served the Maine Town and City Clerks' Association for a time as director, and the association named her Clerk of the Year in 2018. She was a former member of the Noontime Rotary Club and was named a Paul Harris Fellow for her contributions to the Rotary Foundation. More recently, she worked as an accounts payable manager at Bar Harbor Bank and Trust. Mrs. Grindle will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(SLS 1585)
(5-55) the Honorable Richard A. Gould, of Greenville. Mr. Gould was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He went on to have a long career teaching history and government, teaching first in Madison and then in Monson, where he served as a teacher and principal, before returning to Greenville in the 1960s. He taught at Greenville High School until his retirement in 1981. He spent the last six years of his teaching career as director of vocational education in Greenville and Jackman. He coached several sports, including football, basketball and softball. His public service spanned decades. He served as a Greenville Select Board member and Chair from 1974 to 1996; as a Maine State Representative from 1986 to 1996, including service as Chair of the Joint Committee on Natural Resources; as Greenville Code Enforcement Officer from 1998 to 2008; on the Greenville Economic Development Council from 2006 to 2012; as a Greenville School Board Member and Chair from 2000 to 2011; as Executive Director of the Maine Small Schools Coalition; on the State Board of Environmental Protection; and as Board Director of the Moosehead Historical Society. Mr. Gould will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1586)
(5-56) Aiden Keefe, of North Berwick, a standout football player at Noble High School. Aiden was one of three wide receivers named to last autumn's Class A South All-Conference first team. Aiden will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1587)
(5-57) Keith F. Webster, of Portland. Spending much of his time on the ocean, Mr. Webster worked many years as an Emergency Response Technician for Republic Services, responding to marine-related accidents in and around Casco Bay. A writer, he published a book about a boy growing up in the city of Portland, "The Ballard of Patrick Phinney." Mr. Webster will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1588)
(5-58) Timothy "Tim" Flanagan, of Wiscasset. Mr. Flanagan, a veteran of the United States Army, had been selected to attend the United States Military Academy Preparatory School at West Point in New York. After his military service, he began a teaching career as a mathematics teacher at Westbrook High School. He joined Wiscasset High School in 1977 and remained there until his retirement in 2017, teaching and coaching basketball, golf, cross country, track, baseball, tennis and the math team. He coached the math team to multiple state championships, the golf team to a state championship and these and other teams he coached to many conference and regional championships. He also coached the 1990-1991 Wiscasset boys basketball team to the Class C state championship, the only state championship in the history of the boys basketball program. He was a lifetime member of the Midcoast Sports Hall of Fame and a member of the hall's board of directors for over a decade. A golfer, he won many titles, including the Maine Junior Championship in 1964, the Maine Father/Son Championship in 2007 and multiple club championships at Rockland Golf Club, Wawenock Golf Club, of Walpole, and Sheepscot Links Golf Club, of Whitefield. Mr. Flanagan will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1589)
(5-59) Robert Eugene Sommers, Jr., of Damariscotta. Mr. Sommers dedicated 38 years to the Wiscasset School System as a teacher of fifth grade and eighth grade social studies and technology. He was honored as Maine Technology Teacher of the Year in 2010. A longtime coach at Wiscasset middle and high schools, he coached teams in soccer, basketball and softball, including the 1994 Boys Class C State High School Soccer Championship team. He was named Maine High School Soccer Coach of the Year in 1990 and 1994. He was a member and former president of Wawenock Country Club and Rockland Golf Club. Mr. Sommers will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 1590)
(5-60) Freeman Locklin Short, of Presque Isle, a sergeant in the Maine Army National Guard, lost at sea on January 30, 2026 out of Gloucester, Massachusetts while serving as a crewmember aboard the fishing vessel Lily Jean. A fourth-generation fisherman, Sergeant Short also served in the Maine Army National Guard Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, a mountain warfare unit based in Brewer. He served for over twelve years, participating in multinational exercises in Montenegro in 2019 and deploying to the Horn of Africa in 2021. Known as one of the hardest-working and most dedicated of individuals, Sergeant Short received several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and the Overseas Service Ribbon. We honor the bravery and courage of all the fishermen on the Lily Jean;
(SLS 1591)
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CONSENT CALENDAR
First Day
In accordance with House Rule 519, the following items appeared on the Consent Calendar for the First Day:
(7-1) (S.P. 811) (L.D. 1998) Bill "An Act to Authorize Registration of Certain Cash-dispensing Machines Through the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry and to Limit the Use of Certain Cash-dispensing Machines as Virtual Currency Kiosks" Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass
(7-2) (S.P. 820) (L.D. 2004) Bill "An Act to Enhance Support of Local Nutrition Incentive Programs by Modifying the Eligibility Requirements of the Fund to Address Food Insecurity and Provide Nutrition Incentives" Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY reporting Ought to Pass
(7-3) (S.P. 833) (L.D. 2043) Bill "An Act to Raise the Ogunquit Sewer District Debt Limit" Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGY reporting Ought to Pass
(7-4) (H.P. 1346) (L.D. 2016) Bill "An Act to Eliminate the Thermal Imaging Camera Program" Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY reporting Ought to Pass
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Emergency Measure
(10-1) An Act to Provide a Sales Tax Exemption for Housing Constructed Off-site Similar to That for On-site Construction
(S.P. 575) (L.D. 1419)
(C. "A" S-491)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed. This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.
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Pursuant to the Constitution
Public Land
(10-2) Resolve, Authorizing the Director of the Bureau of Parks and Lands to Make Certain Land Transactions in Aroostook and Somerset Counties
(S.P. 822) (L.D. 2006)
(C. "A" S-490)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed. In accordance with the provisions of Section 23 of Article IX of the Constitution, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.
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Acts
(10-3) An Act to Add an Online Option for Reporting of Suspected Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of Adults
(H.P. 1351) (L.D. 2021)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.
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Resolves
(10-4) Resolve, to Name the New East Main Street Bridge in Dover-Foxcroft in Honor of Private Willard Merrill and Private Barton Merrill, Jr.
(H.P. 1359) (L.D. 2029)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.
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ORDERS OF THE DAY
HOUSE CALENDAR
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2026
The following matters, in the consideration of which the House was engaged at the time of adjournment, have preference in the Orders of the Day and continue with such preference until disposed of as provided by House Rule 502.
1. Bill "An Act to Address the Safety of Nurses and Improve Patient Care by Enacting the Maine Quality Care Act"
(S.P. 509) (L.D. 1281)
- In Senate, REFERREDto the Committee on LABOR.
- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 800 on June 25, 2025.
TABLED - April 15, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative MOONEN of Portland.
PENDING - REFERENCE IN CONCURRENCE. (Roll Call Ordered)
2. HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (9) Ought Not to Pass - Minority (4) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-329) - Committee on VETERANS AND LEGAL AFFAIRS on Bill "An Act to Change the State's Method of Allocating Electoral Votes from a Congressional District Method to a Winner-take-all Method Contingent on the State of Nebraska Changing its Method of Allocating Electoral Votes"
(H.P. 879) (L.D. 1356)
- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 800 on June 25, 2025.
TABLED - June 2, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative SUPICA of Bangor.
PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.
3. An Act to Allow Expenditure of Maine Clean Election Act Funding for the Care of Candidates' Dependents
(H.P. 525) (L.D. 818)
(H. "A" H-62)
- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 800 on June 25, 2025.
TABLED - June 10, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative MOONEN of Portland.
PENDING - PASSAGE TO BE ENACTED.
4. Bill "An Act to Permanently Fund 55 Percent of the State's Share of Education by Establishing a Tax on Incomes of More than $1,000,000"
(H.P. 711) (L.D. 1089)
- In House, Minority (5) OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report of the Committee on TAXATION READ and ACCEPTEDon June 11, 2025.
- In Senate, Majority (7) OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report of the Committee on TAXATION READand ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-648) in NON-CONCURRENCE.
- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 800 on June 25, 2025.
TABLED - June 17, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative MOONEN of Portland.
PENDING - Motion of Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford to RECEDE and CONCUR. (Roll Call Ordered)
5. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Stella Foy, of Saco
(SLS 1487)
- In Senate, READ and PASSED.
TABLED - January 13, 2026 (Till Later Today) by Representative COPELAND of Saco.
PENDING - PASSAGE.
6. Resolve, to Rename a Bridge in West Forks Plantation and The Forks Plantation the Gordon Clifton Berry, Sr. Bridge
(H.P. 1358) (L.D. 2028)
TABLED - February 10, 2026 (Till Later Today) by Representative CARUSO of Caratunk.
PENDING - FINAL PASSAGE.
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STATUTORY ADJOURNMENT DATE April 15, 2026
State of Maine
House of Representatives
132nd Legislature
Second Regular Session
HOUSE ADVANCE JOURNAL AND CALENDAR
http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar
House Supplement No. 1
(2-1) The Following Communication: (H.C. 364)
STATE OF MAINE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
SPEAKER'S OFFICE
AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 12, 2026
Honorable Robert B. Hunt
Clerk of the House
2 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt:
Pursuant to my authority under House Rule 201.1 (H), I appoint Representative Amy Bradstreet Arata, of New Gloucester to serve as Speaker Pro Tem to convene the House on February 12, 2026.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau
Speaker of the House
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State of Maine
House of Representatives
132nd Legislature
Second Regular Session
HOUSE ADVANCE JOURNAL AND CALENDAR
http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar
House Supplement No. 2
(1-1) The following Joint Order: (S.P. 902)
ORDERED, the House concurring, that when the Senate and House adjourn, they do so until Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 10:00 in the morning, or until the call of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, respectively.
Comes from the Senate, READ and PASSED.
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