19th Legislative Day                                                                          Thursday, February 29, 2024

 

            Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.

 

            Prayer by Reverend Daniel Chung Ho Lee, York-Ogunquit United Methodist Church, York.

 

            National Anthem by Shawn Cola, York.

 

            Pledge of Allegiance.

 

            Medical Provider of the Day, Robert Rousseau, PA-C, Sidney.

 

            Reading of the Journal of yesterday.

_________________________________

 

SENATE PAPERS

 

            (1-1)  The following Joint Resolution:  (S.P. 957)

 

 

JOINT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING FEBRUARY 28, 2024 AS HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY AWARENESS DAY

 

            WHEREAS,hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a chronic cardiac disease involving thickening of the heart muscle and can potentially lead to debilitating symptoms and serious complications, including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke and, in rare cases, sudden cardiac death; and

 

            WHEREAS, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common inheritable heart disease and can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, with a reported prevalence ranging from 1 in 200 to 1 in 500 in the general population; and

 

            WHEREAS, an estimated 700,000 to 1,650,000 people in the United States have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, yet 85% of them may remain undiagnosed; and

 

            WHEREAS, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy shares symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, palpitations and fainting, with other common cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, making it difficult to distinguish hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from these other diseases; and

 

            WHEREAS, the all-cause mortality risk is 3 to 4 times higher in persons with untreated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy than in the general population; and

 

            WHEREAS, knowing a patient’s medical history and any signs and symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy that the patient is experiencing is an important first step in accurately diagnosing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; and

 

            WHEREAS, a health care provider must conduct a thorough screening with cardiac health questions to help calculate a patient’s risk of genetic and congenital cardiac disorders; and

 

            WHEREAS, a health care provider may conduct several tests, including an echocardiogram, a cardiac magnetic resonance imaging test or genetic testing, to confirm a family history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and must examine the patient’s heart to correctly diagnose hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; and

 

            WHEREAS, following a diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, it is important for patients to work with their health care providers to learn more about the disease and understand different management options, including prescription medicines and surgical treatments; and

            WHEREAS, the 4th Wednesday in February has been designated Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Awareness Day by the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association; now, therefore, be it

 

            RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-first Legislature now assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this opportunity to designate February 28, 2024 as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Awareness Day, to acknowledge the critical importance of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy awareness in improving cardiovascular health in the State and to express our support for raising awareness of undiagnosed and untreated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as a serious public health issue and the need to seek appropriate care for patients suffering from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

 

 

            Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Non-Concurrent Matter

 

 

            (1-2)  Bill "An Act to Prohibit Certain Municipalities from Adopting Moratoria on Emergency Shelters"

(H.P. 1370)  (L.D. 2146)

 

            Majority (8) OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTREAD and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-760) in the House on February 22, 2024.

 

            Comes from the Senate with the Minority (5) OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT READ and ACCEPTED in NON-CONCURRENCE.

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

COMMUNICATIONS

 

 

            (2-1)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 429)

 

STATE OF MAINE

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE

COMMITTEE ON LABOR AND HOUSING

 

February 26, 2024

 

The Honorable Troy Jackson

President of the Senate

 

The Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House of Representatives

 

131st Legislature

State House

Augusta, ME 04333

 

Dear President Jackson and Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

Please accept this letter as the report of the findings of the Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing from its review and evaluation of the Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing) under the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3 Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Act, the committee notified the Maine State Housing Authority by letter dated April 20, 2023 of its intent to conduct a review.  MaineHousing submitted its program evaluation report on November 1, 2023.

 

The committee has reviewed the report and unanimously finds that the Maine State Housing Authority is operating within its statutory authority.

 

Additionally, the committee discussed the relationship between MaineHousing and the Legislature. MaineHousing is a quasi-independent entity governed by a Board of Directors but is subject to funding, policy decisions, directives and review by the Legislature. Committee members acknowledged there is no executive branch “Department of Housing” and wonder how this effects policy outcomes and products generated by MaineHousing.  The Committee discussed that perhaps a future Legislature may want to examine the structure of MaineHousing and what changes may be necessary to meet the State’s housing demand.

The Committee appreciates and welcomes additional thoughts on oversight from both the Legislature and the Executive Branch on different mechanisms of oversight especially as it pertains to program development.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Mike Tipping

Senate Chair

 

S/Amy Roeder

House Chair

 

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

 

            (2-2)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 430)

 

STATE OF MAINE

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE

COMMITTEE ON MARINE RESOURCES

 

February 15, 2024

 

The Honorable Troy D. Jackson, President of the Senate

The Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross, Speaker of the House

131^st Legislature

3 State House

Augusta, ME 04333-0003

 

Dear President Jackson and Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

Please accept this letter as a report of the findings of the Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources from its review and evaluation of the Lobster Advisory Council under the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3 of the Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.

 

The committee heard a presentation from the Lobster Advisory Council on February 1, 2024, and finds that the Council is operating within its statutory authority; however, we are recommending that, moving forward, the Lobster Advisory Council be removed from the list of agencies regularly scheduled for review under the State Government Evaluation Act. We make this recommendation because many of the requirements of the GEA are not germane to the Lobster Advisory Council’s structure or work. The committee has proposed legislation to effectuate this change.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Sen. Cameron Reny

Senate Chair

 

S/Rep. Allison Hepler

House Chair

 

 

_________________________________

 

ORDERS

 

            (4-1)  On motion of Representative LANDRY of Farmington, the following Joint Order:  (H.P. 1438)

 

            ORDERED, the Senate concurring, that the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife shall report out, to the House, a bill regarding gas tax allocations.

 

 

_________________________________

 

 

            (4-2)  On motion of Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston, the following House Order:  (H.O. 42)

 

            ORDERED, that Representative Jeffrey Sean Adams of Lebanon be excused Feb 21 and 22 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Mark Michael Babin of Fort Fairfield be excused Feb 15, 20, 21 and 22 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Meldon H. Carmichael of Greenbush be excused Feb 15, 20, 21 and 22 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Sally Jeane Cluchey of Bowdoinham be excused Feb 15 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Amanda N. Collamore of Pittsfield be excused Feb 21 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Deqa Dhalac of South Portland be excused Jan 23 and 25 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Victoria W. Doudera of Camden be excused Feb 27 for legislative business reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Irene A. Gifford of Lincoln be excused Feb 21 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative David G. Haggan of Hampden be excused Feb 1, 6, 8, 13 and 15 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Randall C. Hall of Wilton be excused Feb 22 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Caldwell Jackson of Oxford be excused Feb 13, 21 and 22 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Michel A. Lajoie of Lewiston be excused Feb 21 for personal reasons and Feb 27 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Ann Higgins Matlack of St. George be excused Feb 6 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Joshua Morris of Turner be excused Jan 23 and 25 for personal reasons.

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Kevin J. M. O'Connell of Brewer be excused Feb 22 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Chad Richard Perkins of Dover-Foxcroft be excused Feb 21 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Morgan J. Rielly of Westbrook be excused Feb 21 for personal reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Tammy L. Schmersal-Burgess of Mexico be excused Feb 20, 21 and 22 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Mark Walker of Naples be excused Feb 27 for health reasons.

 

            AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Stephen J. Wood of Greene be excused Feb 22 for health reasons.

 

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR

 

            In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items:

 

Recognizing:

 

            (5-1)  the national Job Corps program, of Washington, DC, which is celebrating its 60th Anniversary of changing young people's lives through preparing them for high-demand industry sector employment and furthering education opportunities.  The Loring Job Corps Center in Limestone and the Penobscot Job Corps Center in Bangor have many years of success in helping students earn high school diplomas, build the skills for long-term careers and obtain high-quality job placements.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1450)

 

 

            (5-2)  Ashton Leclerc, of Gorham, who received the George Vinall Trophy for his being the Class AA South Basketball Tournament's outstanding player-sportsman.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1451)

 

 

            (5-3)  the Gorham High School Boys Basketball team, which won the Class AA South Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1452)

 

 

            (5-4)  the Franco-American Collection at the University of Southern Maine Lewiston-Auburn Campus, of Lewiston, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary of preserving and promoting the culture and history of Maine's Franco-Americans.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1453)

 

 

            (5-5)  the Honorable Harold L. Silverman, of Calais, who is celebrating his 90th birthday on March 1, 2024.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1454)

 

            (5-6)  the Mt. Ararat High School 200 Freestyle Relay Team, of Topsham, which won the Class A Boys State Swimming Championships.  Members of the team are Josh Langworthy, Bradan Leeman, Keegan Rowe and Aidan Saunders.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1455)

 

 

            (5-7)  the Mt. Ararat High School 200 Medley Relay Team, of Topsham, which won the Class A Boys State Swimming Championships.  Members of the team are Josh Langworthy, Bradan Leeman, Keegan Rowe and Aidan Saunders.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1456)

 

 

            (5-8)  Gilbert Jean Mendez, of Clearwater, Florida, a student at the University of Maine at Presque Isle and a player on the men's basketball team, who recently scored his 1,000th career point.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1457)

 

 

            (5-9)  Dany Harris, of Danbury, Connecticut, a student at the University of Maine at Presque Isle and a player on the men's basketball team, who recently scored his 1,000th career point.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1458)

 

 

            (5-10)  Aleia Milano, of Lake County, California, a student at the University of Maine at Presque Isle and a player on the women's basketball team, who recently scored her 1,000th career point.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1459)

 

 

            (5-11)  Clara White, of Orono, who won the Class C Girls Nordic Skiing State Championships.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1460)

 

            (5-12)  Josh Langworthy, of Bowdoinham, a student at Mt. Ararat High School, who won the 100 Backstroke Event at the Class A Boys State Swimming Championships.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1461)

 

 

            (5-13)  the Mt. Ararat High School Girls Basketball team, of Topsham, which placed second in the Class A South Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1462)

 

 

            (5-14)  Sebastian Shields, of Saco, a student at Thornton Academy, who won the 200 and 500 Freestyle Events at the Class A Boys State Swimming Championships.  Sebastian set a new school record in the 500 Freestyle and was also named the Performer of the Meet.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1463)

 

 

            (5-15)  Jim Boothby, of Ellsworth, who is retiring as the Superintendent of Regional School Unit 25 after 33 years of public service.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1464)

 

 

            (5-16)  the Mount Desert Island YMCA, of Bar Harbor, which is celebrating its 125th Anniversary of providing fitness training, sports, after school care, summer day camps and other activities to all members of the community.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1465)

 

 

            (5-17)  Cape Elizabeth Fire-Rescue, which responded to the mayday call of the Tara Lynn II during a storm.  The Water Extrication Team was able to reach the boat and rescue the 4 people on board.  We extend our appreciation and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1466)

 

            (5-18)  Merrifield Farm, of Gorham, which was named Best in Show for their Amber Rich syrup at the Maine Maple Producers Association annual competition.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1467)

 

 

            (5-19)  Douglas Maifeld, of Rumford, a school resource officer with Regional School Unit 10, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maine Association of Police for his over 30 years of dedication to the youth of Maine and nearly 35 years of service as a police officer in Maine.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1468)

 

 

            (5-20)  Donald Miller, of Woodstock, a sergeant with the Rumford Police Department, who received the Heroism Award from the Maine Association of Police.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1469)

 

 

            (5-21)  Ruth Beamis, of Yarmouth, who is celebrating her 100th birthday on March 1, 2024.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 765)

Presented by Representative BELL of Yarmouth.

Cosponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland.

 

 

            (5-22)  Isaac Keresey, of Pittsfield, a student at Maine Central Institute, who won the Class B North Wrestling Championship in the 157-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 766)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

 

 

            (5-23)  Sam Gerrie, of Pittsfield, a student at Maine Central Institute, who won the Triple Jump Event at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B Indoor Track Championship and placed second in the Long Jump Event, setting a new school record.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 767)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

 

 

            (5-24)  Gabrielle Finelli, of Pittsfield, a student at Maine Central Institute, who placed second in the Triple Jump Event at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B Indoor Track Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 768)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

 

 

            (5-25)  Amya Braley, of Pittsfield, who placed second in the Shot Put Event at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B Indoor Track Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 769)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

 

 

            (5-26)  Heather Nelson, of Pittsfield, a student at Maine Central Institute, who placed second in the Pole Vault Event at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B Indoor Track Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 770)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

 

 

            (5-27)  the Maine Central Institute Indoor Track Team, of Pittsfield, which placed second at the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 771)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.

            (5-28)  Keith Cook, of Burnham, a student at Maine Central Institute, who won the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference Class B North Wrestling Championship in the 138-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 772)

Presented by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

Cosponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo.

 

 

In Memory of:

 

            (5-29)  the Honorable Richard Stuart "Dick" Davies, of Hallowell.  Mr. Davies had an extensive career in public service and was elected four times to the Maine State Legislature as a representative for Orono, serving from 1974 to 1982 and advocating for utility reform and sponsoring first-in-the-nation legislation to end mandatory retirement.  From 1982 to 1986 and again from 2003 to 2007 he served as a Senior Policy Advisor to Governor Joseph E. Brennan and Governor John E. Baldacci, advising on state policies, legislative relations and emerging issues.  From 1986 to 1990 he served as Director of Development and Director of Government Relations at the Maine State Housing Authority, where he advocated on behalf of communities to develop affordable housing and on behalf of tenants of publicly financed housing, and from 1990 to 2002 he advocated on behalf of a diverse range of clients including a natural gas utility, an association of school superintendents, a public land financing organization and an association of Community Action Program agencies.  From 2007 until his retirement in 2013 Mr. Davies served as Maine's Public Advocate, and after retirement he served as the Treasurer for Kennebec County and published his first book, The King's Gold Double Leopards.  Mr. Davies will be long remembered and sadly missed by family and friends and all those whose lives he touched;

 

(HLS 655)

Presented by Representative SHAGOURY of Hallowell.

Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec.

 

 

            (5-30)  Michael Bradford Harper, of Fryeburg.  As a young man, Mr. Harper embarked on a missionary journey for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Manila, Philippines.  He pursued a career in dentistry and served in the United States Army for seven years, including a tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.  Mr. Harper will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family and friends and all those whose lives he touched;

 

(HLS 773)

Presented by Representative NESS of Fryeburg.

Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.

 

 

 

 

_________________________________

 

REPORTS OF COMMITTEE

 

Divided Report

 

            (6-1)  Majority Report of the Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-541) on Bill "An Act to Authorize the Efficiency Maine Trust to Establish a Program to Support the Uptake of Medium-duty and Heavy-duty Zero-emission Vehicles by Maine Businesses and to Establish a Medium-duty and Heavy-duty Zero-emission Vehicle-to-grid Pilot Project"

(S.P. 61)  (L.D. 122)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    LAWRENCE of York
                                    GROHOSKI of Hancock

            Representatives:
                                    ZEIGLER of Montville
                                    GEIGER of Rockland
                                    KESSLER of South Portland
                                    RUNTE of York
                                    WARREN of Scarborough

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    HARRINGTON of York

            Representatives:
                                    BABIN of Fort Fairfield
                                    DUNPHY of Embden
                                    FOSTER of Dexter
                                    PAUL of Winterport

            Comes from the Senate with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-541).

 

_________________________________

 

            (6-2)  Majority Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT reporting Ought to Pass on Resolve, to Adopt Conceptual Elements of the 2023 Augusta State Facilities Master Plan

(S.P. 869)  (L.D. 2068)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    NANGLE of Cumberland
                                    BALDACCI of Penobscot
                                    LYFORD of Penobscot

            Representatives:
                                    STOVER of Boothbay
                                    ABDI of Lewiston
                                    COPELAND of Saco
                                    RISEMAN of Harrison
                                    SINCLAIR of Bath

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Resolve.

 

            Signed:

            Representatives:
                                    ADAMS of Lebanon
                                    GREENWOOD of Wales
                                    POMERLEAU of Standish
                                    UNDERWOOD of Presque Isle

            Comes from the Senate with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS Report READ and ACCEPTEDand the Resolve PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED.

 

_________________________________

 

            (6-3)  Majority Report of the Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-781) on Bill "An Act to Enact the Safe Cosmetics Act"

(H.P. 1224)  (L.D. 1908)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    BRENNER of Cumberland
                                    CARNEY of Cumberland

            Representatives:
                                    GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach
                                    BELL of Yarmouth
                                    BRIDGEO of Augusta
                                    CAMPBELL of Orrington
                                    DOUDERA of Camden
                                    HOBBS of Wells
                                    SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico
                                    WOODSOME of Waterboro

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    LYFORD of Penobscot

_________________________________

 

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. 657)  (L.D. 1640) Bill "An Act to Require Industry Training and Certification for Persons Undertaking Corrosion Prevention and Mitigation for Bridges"  Committee on TRANSPORTATION reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-546)

 

            (7-2)  (S.P. 783)  (L.D. 1921) Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding State-chartered Credit Unions"  Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-542)

 

            (7-3)  (S.P. 852)  (L.D. 2024) Resolve, to Authorize the State Tax Assessor to Convey the Interest of the State in Certain Real Estate in the Unorganized Territory  Committee on TAXATION reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-540)

 

            (7-4)  (S.P. 854)  (L.D. 2026) Bill "An Act to Authorize Medical Waivers for Menhaden Fishing Licenses"  Committee on MARINE RESOURCES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-545)

 

            (7-5)  (S.P. 877)  (L.D. 2084) Bill "An Act to Provide Funding for Essential Services for Victims of Crimes"  Committee on JUDICIARY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-539)

 

            (7-6)  (S.P. 916)  (L.D. 2160) Bill "An Act to Provide for the 2024 and 2025 Allocations of the State Ceiling on Private Activity Bonds" (EMERGENCY)  Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESSreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(S-543)

 

            (7-7)  (S.P. 924)  (L.D. 2173) Resolve, to Rename the Interstate 295 Interchange in the Town of Freeport the Matthew MacMillan Bridge  Committee on TRANSPORTATIONreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(S-538)

 

            (7-8)  (H.P. 1394)  (L.D. 2179) Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 64:  Maine School Facilities Program and School Revolving Renovation Fund, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Education and the Maine Municipal Bond Bank (EMERGENCY)  Committee on EDUCATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRSreporting Ought to Pass

 

            (7-9)  (H.P. 182)  (L.D. 284) Bill "An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Maine Workforce, Research, Development and Student Achievement Institute"  Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESSreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(H-783)

 

            (7-10)  (H.P. 1349)  (L.D. 2125) Bill "An Act to Establish the Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias Advisory Council Within the Department of Health and Human Services and to Require a State Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias"  Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-782)

 

            (7-11)  (H.P. 1357)  (L.D. 2133) Bill "An Act to Expand the Use of Career and Technical Education Centers in the Development of the Electrician Workforce"(EMERGENCY)  Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESS reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-784)

 

_________________________________

 

ENACTORS

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-1)  An Act to Increase the State's Share of the Cost of Health Insurance for Retired Teachers

(H.P. 1136)  (L.D. 1773)
(C. "A" H-762)

 

 

            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.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-2)  Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 270: Uniform Reporting System for Quality Data Sets, a Major Substantive Rule of the Maine Health Data Organization

(H.P. 1385)  (L.D. 2165)

 

 

            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.

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

Acts

 

            (10-3)  An Act to Provide Funds for Comprehensive Family Life Education Services

(S.P. 120)  (L.D. 254)
(C. "A" S-537)

 

            (10-4)  An Act to Amend a Notice Provision Regarding Registration of Out-of-state Child Custody Determinations Under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

(H.P. 1340)  (L.D. 2081)
(C. "A" H-761)

 

            (10-5)  An Act to Make Changes to Certain Laws Governing Renewable Energy Projects

(S.P. 892)  (L.D. 2099)
(C. "A" S-530)

 

            (10-6)  An Act to Prohibit Unauthorized Paramilitary Training

(H.P. 1354)  (L.D. 2130)
(C. "A" H-757)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Resolves

 

            (10-7)  Resolve, Directing the Workers' Compensation Board to Analyze Data on the Adequacy of Certain Maine Workers' Compensation Benefits

(S.P. 767)  (L.D. 1896)
(C. "A" S-534)

 

            (10-8)  Resolve, to Establish the African American and Wabanaki Studies Advisory Council and Provide Funding to Support African American Studies and Wabanaki Studies

(H.P. 1279)  (L.D. 2001)
(C. "A" H-763)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.

 

_________________________________

ORDERS OF THE DAY

HOUSE CALENDAR
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024

 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

 

            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.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (8) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-31) - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES on RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Establish a Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment

(H.P. 575)  (L.D. 928)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - April 12, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

2.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-373) - Minority (6) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGYon Bill "An Act to Direct the Public Utilities Commission to Seek Informational Bids Regarding Small Modular Nuclear Reactors in the State"

(H.P. 1001)  (L.D. 1549)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 8, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative ZEIGLER of Montville.

PENDING - Motion of same Representative to ACCEPT the Minority OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report.

 

 

 

3.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A"(5) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-502)- Report "B" (5) Ought to Pass - Report "C" (3) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (H-503) - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Define the Term 'Solitary Confinement' for the Laws Governing a Jail or Correctional Facility"

(H.P. 681)  (L.D. 1086)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 14, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

4.         SENATE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A" (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-397) - Report "B" (4) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (S-398) - Report "C"(2) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES on Bill "An Act to End the Sale of Flavored Tobacco Products"

(S.P. 496)  (L.D. 1215)

 

- In Senate, Report "A" OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED READ and ACCEPTEDand the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-397).

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 23, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative MEYER of Eliot.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

5.         Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Anna Oliver, of Hodgdon

(SLS 1291)

 

- In Senate, READ and PASSED.

TABLED - January 11, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative QUINT of Hodgdon.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

6.         Expression of Legislative Sentiment in Memory of Dino Frost, of Pittsfield

(HLS 734)

 

TABLED - January 16, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield.

PENDING - ADOPTION.

7.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-731) - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Restore Firearm Rights and Hunting Privileges to Persons Previously Convicted of Certain Nonviolent Felony Crimes"

(H.P. 1006)  (L.D. 1561)

 

TABLED - January 30, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.

 

 

8.         Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Norway Savings Bank

(HLS 751)

 

TABLED - February 20, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative MILLETT of Waterford.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

9.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A" (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-758) - Report "B" (4) Ought Not to Pass - Report "C" (1) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (H-759) - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Expand the State's Workforce by Supporting the Transition from Incarceration to Employment"

(H.P. 578)  (L.D. 931)

 

TABLED - February 21, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

10.       HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-776) - Minority (6) Ought to Pass - Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY on Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 41: Special Restrictions on Pesticide Use, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Board of Pesticides Control (EMERGENCY)

(H.P. 1403)  (L.D. 2189)

 

TABLED - February 28, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative PLUECKER of Warren.

PENDING - ADOPTION OF COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-776).

 

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BILLS HELD

 

1.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (8) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-775) - Minority (4) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES on Bill "An Act Regarding the Reduction and Recycling of Food Waste"

(H.P. 645)  (L.D. 1009)

 

- In House, Bill was PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-775).

HELD at the Request of Representative MORRIS of Turner.

 

 

 

 

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STATUTORY ADJOURNMENT DATE April 17, 2024

 

State of Maine
House of Representatives
131st Legislature
Second Regular Session
HOUSE ADVANCE JOURNAL AND CALENDAR

http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar

Thursday, February 29, 2024

House Supplement No. 1

 

SENATE PAPERS

 

 

            (1-1)  The following Joint Order:  (S.P. 961)

 

 

            ORDERED, the House concurring, that when the Senate and House adjourn, they do so until Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 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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State of Maine
House of Representatives
131st Legislature
Second Regular Session
HOUSE ADVANCE JOURNAL AND CALENDAR

http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar

Thursday, February 29, 2024

House Supplement No. 2

 

SENATE PAPERS

 

            (1-1)  The following Joint Resolution:  (S.P. 963)

 

 

JOINT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 29, 2024 AS ACCESS TO JUSTICE DAY

 

            WHEREAS,2024 marks the 29th anniversary of the founding of the Justice Action Group, a judge-led coalition of leaders from Maine’s legal community who are passionate about ensuring that all Maine people have access to civil justice; and

 

            WHEREAS, the Justice Action Group’s members include representatives of the state and federal judiciary, the Legislature, nonprofit civil legal aid providers, the University of Maine School of Law, the Maine Justice Foundation, the Maine State Bar Association, the Maine Trial Lawyers Association, private practice attorneys and others; and

 

            WHEREAS, key initiator Judge Frank Coffin described the Justice Action Group as a catalyst, something introduced in small quantities that produces great change, and the Justice Action Group has been an advocate for equal access to justice since 1995; and

 

            WHEREAS, equal access to justice is a bedrock principle of a free, constitutional society, but no system of laws and constitutional protections can be effective if only those who can afford private advocates have access to justice; and

 

            WHEREAS, because justice for all is achievable only through the vigilance and action of the legislative, judicial and executive branches of government, it is important to provide for access to justice in all branches of State Government; and

 

            WHEREAS, providing equal access to justice has tangible, widespread benefits for Maine’s families, children, schools, communities, businesses, charities and government; and

 

            WHEREAS, legal issues profoundly affect basic human needs such as safety from violence and exploitation, security and stability for children and the families in which they are nurtured, health, shelter and food security; and

 

            WHEREAS, the need for increased support for civil legal aid and pro bono representation for low-income and vulnerable Maine people remains acute; now, therefore, be it

 

            RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-first Legislature now assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this opportunity to declare February 29, 2024 as Access to Justice Day to acknowledge and express our appreciation and strong support for the Justice Action Group and all civil legal aid providers and private practice attorneys who provide pro bono services for those otherwise unable to afford legal representation;and be it further

 

            RESOLVED: That a suitable copy of this resolution, duly authenticated by the Secretary of State, be transmitted to the Justice Action Group.

 

 

            Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.

 

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