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The House CalendarThe Advance Journal and Calendar of the House of Representatives Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.
Prayer by Pastor Mark Rockwood, Berean Baptist Church, Brunswick.
National Anthem by Honorable John "Jack" E. Ducharme III, Madison.
Pledge of Allegiance.
Medical Provider of the Day, Dr. Robert Rousseau, PA-C, EM-CAQ, Sidney.
Reading of the Journal of Tuesday, February 4, 2025. _________________________________
(1-1) The following Joint Resolution: (S.P. 183)
JOINT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2025 AS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
WHEREAS,Maine’s Black history and the story of Maine’s role in the global economy of enslavement have been largely effaced from our narratives and from our collective consciousness; and
WHEREAS, from the earliest arrivals of people from Europe and Africa in the Americas, Africans and African Americans have been part of the story of this land, and researchers have identified over 2,000 people of color who lived in what is now called the State of Maine prior to the year 1800; and
WHEREAS, Africans who were brought involuntarily to these shores suffered generations of enslavement, and their descendants faced the injustices of lynch mobs, segregation and the denial of basic fundamental rights; and
WHEREAS, people living in Maine engaged in the slave trade for at least 113 years, with the earliest known slaving voyage departing from Maine’s shores taking place in 1749 and the last known slaving voyage on a Maine-built vessel taking place in 1862; and
WHEREAS, a total of 70 Maine-built vessels are known to have transported enslaved people, representing only the tip of the iceberg, and slaving vessels were constructed in at least 26 Maine towns; and
WHEREAS, Maine merchants were deeply entangled in the global economy of enslavement, as were the banks that handled their accounts and the insurance firms that secured their investments, and at a time when Havana, Cuba was the hub of the illicit slave trade, that city was Portland’s number one trading partner; and
WHEREAS, it was not only Maine’s coastal towns that were complicit in the global economy of enslavement through shipbuilding and merchant trading activities, but its inland regions as well: crops and livestock were routinely shipped in the “coastwise” trade to provision the sugar plantations of the West Indies, along with salted fish and even ice from this region; and
WHEREAS, great quantities of Maine timber were processed into barrel staves and shipped throughout the 18th and 19th centuries to the West Indies, where enslaved Africans were forced to fashion them into barrels; they then filled these barrels with the sugar and molasses that were shipped back to Portland and distilled into rum, which was used as currency in purchasing more captive Africans; and
WHEREAS, African Americans in all walks of life have shown resilience despite suffering under slavery and injustice and have made significant contributions throughout the history of the State and across the United States; and
WHEREAS, from the Revolutionary War through the abolitionist movement, to marches from Selma to Montgomery and across America today, and in this State, African Americans have remained devoted to the proposition that all of us are created equal, even when their own rights were denied; and
WHEREAS, the month of February is officially celebrated as Black History Month, which dates back to 1926 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson set aside a special period of time in February to recognize the heritage and achievements of African Americans; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month was officially observed for the first time in 1976 when President Gerald Ford issued a message recognizing Black History Month; and
WHEREAS, in 1986 Congress passed a Public Law designating February as “National Black History Month”; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the First Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this opportunity to recognize the significance of Black History Month as an important time to honor the contributions of African Americans in the nation’s history and encourage all people in the State to learn more about the past and to better understand the experiences that have shaped the State and the nation.
Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.
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(1-2) The following Joint Resolution: (S.P. 184)
JOINT RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE
WHEREAS,Mary McLeod Bethune, the daughter of formerly enslaved parents, was one of the most important Black educators, civil rights and women’s rights leaders and government officials of the 20th century; and
WHEREAS, the college she founded set educational standards for today’s Black colleges, and her role as an advisor to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt gave African Americans an advocate in government; and
WHEREAS, born on July 10, 1875 near Mayesville, South Carolina, she was one of the last of Samuel and Patsy McLeod’s 17 children. After the Civil War, Mary’s mother worked for her former owner until she could buy the land on which the family grew cotton. By age 9, Mary could pick 250 pounds of cotton per day; and
WHEREAS, she benefited from efforts to educate African Americans after the Civil War, graduating in 1894 from the Scotia Seminary, a boarding school in North Carolina. She next attended Dwight Moody’s Institute for Home and Foreign Missions in Chicago, Illinois. But with no church willing to sponsor her as a missionary, she became an educator. While teaching in South Carolina, she married fellow teacher Albertus Bethune, with whom she had a son in 1899; and
WHEREAS, the Bethunes moved to Palatka, Florida, where Mary worked at the Presbyterian church and also sold insurance. In 1904, her marriage ended, and, determined to support her son, she opened a boarding school, the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls. Eventually, her school became a college, merging with the all-male Cookman Institute to form Bethune-Cookman College in 1929. It issued its first degrees in 1943; and
WHEREAS, a champion of racial and gender equality, Bethune founded many organizations and led voter registration drives after women gained the right to vote in 1920, risking racist attacks. In 1924, she was elected president of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and, in 1935, she became the founding president of the National Council of Negro Women. She also played a role in the transition of Black voters from the Republican Party, “the party of Lincoln,” to the Democratic Party during the Great Depression. A friend of Eleanor Roosevelt, she became the highest-ranking African American woman in government when President Franklin Roosevelt named her director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration in 1936. She remained there until 1944. She was also a leader of the president’s unofficial “Black Cabinet”; and
WHEREAS, in 1937, Bethune organized the National Conference on the Problems of the Negro and Negro Youth and fought to end discrimination and lynching. In 1940, she became vice president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored Persons, or NAACP, a position she held for the rest of her life. As a member of the advisory board that in 1942 created the Women’s Army Corps, she ensured that the corps was racially integrated. Appointed by President Harry S. Truman, she was the only woman of color at the founding conference of the United Nations in 1945; and
WHEREAS, Bethune regularly wrote for leading African American newspapers the Pittsburgh Courier and the Chicago Defender and was a businesswoman who co-owned a Daytona, Florida resort and cofounded the Central Life Insurance Company of Tampa; and
WHEREAS, Bethune’s life was celebrated with a memorial statue in Washington, D.C. in 1974 and a postage stamp in 1985, and her final residence is a National Historic Site. On July 13, 2022, she became the first African American to be represented with a state statue in the National Statuary Hall Collection at the United States Capitol; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the First Regular Session, take this occasion to honor the life and memory of Mary McLeod Bethune, a great American, for her efforts to educate African Americans, her political activism and advocacy in government and her championing of racial and gender equality.
Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.
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(1-3) The following Joint Resolution: (S.P. 173)
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPLICATION TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES CALLING AN ARTICLE V CONVENTION TO PROPOSE AN AMENDMENT ADDRESSING CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM
WHEREAS,the United States Constitution, Article V places substantial authority and responsibility upon the legislatures of the several states to ensure that the Federal Government and each of its branches remain within their enumerated powers and remain protective of the rights of the people; and
WHEREAS, a variety of important movements have arisen within the legislatures of the several states to address a wide variety of concerns that may be appropriately addressed within the context of Article V of the United States Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature of Maine wishes to address these various approaches in a bipartisan manner; and
WHEREAS, an agreement to call for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution does not commit the Legislature of Maine to approve any proposal that may arise from any subsequent convention;rather, this Legislature is simply exercising its will to engage in a formal process with other states to give full and authoritative consideration to various proposals consistent with the topics expressed by this joint resolution; and
WHEREAS, under the United States Constitution, Article V, the Congress of the United States, whenever two-thirds of both Houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose amendments to the United States Constitution, or, on the application of the legislatures of two-thirds of the several states, shall call a convention for proposing amendments that, in either case, shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of the United States Constitution, when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states, or by conventions in three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratification may be proposed by the Congress; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That, if the Congress of the United States does not propose by December 31, 2026 an amendment to the United States Constitution to regulate the role of money in elections and governance to ensure transparency, prevent corruption, protect against the buying of access to or influence over representatives and overturn the decision of the United States Supreme Court in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and related cases, the Legislature of Maine hereby applies to the Congress of the United States, under the provisions of Article V of the United States Constitution, to call a convention of the states limited to proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution to regulate the role of money in elections and governance to ensure transparency, prevent corruption, protect against the buying of access to or influence over representatives and overturn the decision of the United States Supreme Court in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and related cases; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this application is intended to address the same subject matter as applications from other states under the provisions of Article V of the United States Constitution to call a convention to regulate the role of money in elections and governance to ensure transparency, prevent corruption, protect against the buying of access to or influence over representatives and overturn the decision of the United States Supreme Court in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and related cases; and this application must be aggregated with the same for the purpose of attaining the two-thirds of states necessary to require Congress to call a limited convention on this subject, but may not be aggregated with any other applications on any other subject; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this application constitutes a continuing application in accordance with Article V of the United States Constitution until the legislatures of at least two-thirds of the several states have made applications on the same subject; and be it further
RESOLVED: That suitable copies of this resolution, duly authenticated by the Secretary of State, be transmitted to the Secretary of the Senate and presiding officers of both houses of the legislatures of each of the several states in the nation, the Speaker and Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, the President and Secretary of the United States Senate and each member of the Maine Congressional Delegation.
Comes from the Senate, READ and REFERRED to the Committee on VETERANS AND LEGAL AFFAIRS.
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(2-1) The Following Communication: (H.P. 332)
STATE OF MAINE CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 6, 2025
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 132nd Legislature
Honorable Matthea Daughtry President of the Senate 132nd Legislature
Dear Mr. Speaker and Madam President:
On February 6, 2025, 26 bills were received by the Clerk of the House.
Pursuant to the provisions of Joint Rule 308.2, these bills were referred to the Joint Standing Committees on February 6, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Resolve, Authorizing the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to Convey and Release the State's Interest in Certain Real Property Located in the Town of Richmond (H.P. 320) (L.D. 491) (Sponsored by Representative CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham) (Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc)
Resolve, to Improve Standards for Animal Rescue Entities (H.P. 327) (L.D. 498) (Sponsored by Representative PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft) (BY REQUEST) (Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec and Representatives: BABIN of Fort Fairfield, MCINTYRE of Lowell, MINGO of Calais, NUTTING of Oakland, WHITE of Guilford)
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Secure Prosperity for Maine Families and Businesses" (H.P. 312) (L.D. 483) (Sponsored by Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Enhance Public Safety in Rural Counties by Providing State Police Patrol and Policing Services" (H.P. 306) (L.D. 477) (Sponsored by Representative DUCHARME of Madison) (Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset and Representatives: BUNKER of Farmington, CRAFTS of Newcastle, CRAY of Palmyra, FREDETTE of Newport, PARRY of Arundel, POIRIER of Skowhegan, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, STOVER of Boothbay)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Department of Public Safety" (H.P. 313) (L.D. 484) (Sponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield)
Bill "An Act Regarding Criminal Justice" (H.P. 314) (L.D. 485) (Sponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield)
Bill "An Act to Remove the Duty of an Individual Exercising Self-defense to Safely Retreat or Abstain from Performing Certain Acts upon Demand" (H.P. 315) (L.D. 486) (Sponsored by Representative PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft) (Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec and Representatives: ARDELL of Monticello, BABIN of Fort Fairfield, CARUSO of Caratunk, EDER of Waterboro, MCINTYRE of Lowell, MINGO of Calais, NUTTING of Oakland, WHITE of Guilford)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Time Frame for Issuing a Silver Alert and to Require Silver Alerts for All Persons Missing from Certain Inpatient Facilities" (H.P. 325) (L.D. 496) (Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill) (Cosponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo and Representatives: DODGE of Belfast, SUPICA of Bangor)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Expand Educational Opportunities and Broaden Educational Services for Students Enrolled in Equivalent Instruction Programs" (H.P. 311) (L.D. 482) (Sponsored by Representative BAGSHAW of Windham) (Cosponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland and Representatives: CIMINO of Bridgton, COLLINS of Sidney, HAGGAN of Hampden, HASENFUS of Readfield, MATHIESON of Kittery, Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, HAGGAN of Penobscot, STEWART of Aroostook)
Bill "An Act to Fairly Fund School Administrative Units for Economically Disadvantaged Students"(H.P. 330) (L.D. 501) (Sponsored by Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston) (Cosponsored by Representative ARCHER of Saco, Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin and Representatives: ABDI of Lewiston, DHALAC of South Portland, LEE of Auburn, MOONEN of Portland, MURPHY of Scarborough, ROEDER of Bangor, SALISBURY of Westbrook, TUELL of East Machias)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Allow a Water District Created by Special Act of the Legislature to Borrow Money and Issue a Warrant Prior to a Default" (H.P. 310) (L.D. 481) (Sponsored by Representative BECK of South Portland) (Cosponsored by Senator BRENNER of Cumberland and Representatives: BOYER of Cape Elizabeth, KESSLER of South Portland, OLSEN of Raymond, WADSWORTH of Hiram, WARREN of Scarborough, Senator: HARRINGTON of York)
Environment and Natural Resources
Bill "An Act to Facilitate Expansion of the State's Recycling Efforts Under the Beverage Container Redemption Program" (H.P. 308) (L.D. 479) (Sponsored by Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn)
Bill "An Act to Protect Coastal Property by Allowing Property Owners to Protect Their Existing Dwellings" (H.P. 317) (L.D. 488) (Sponsored by Representative HALL of Wilton) (BY REQUEST) (Cosponsored by Representatives: COOPER of Windham, JACKSON of Oxford, WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Bill "An Act to Require Rules Designed to Reduce Climate Change to Include Estimates of the Reduction in Adverse Climate Effects and of the Cost to Consumers" (H.P. 324) (L.D. 495) (Sponsored by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor) (Cosponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York and Representatives: CAMPBELL of Orrington, DUCHARME of Madison, FOSTER of Dexter, MCINTYRE of Lowell, PARRY of Arundel, PAUL of Winterport, SMITH of Palermo, WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Department of Environmental Protection" (H.P. 326) (L.D. 497) (Sponsored by Representative DOUDERA of Camden) (Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc)
Bill "An Act to Prohibit Geoengineering" (H.P. 328) (L.D. 499) (Sponsored by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico) (Cosponsored by Representatives: JAVNER of Chester, LAVIGNE of Berwick, LEMELIN of Chelsea, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, MASON of Lisbon, PAUL of Winterport, QUINT of Hodgdon, SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
Bill "An Act to Promote Clean and Affordable Maine-sourced Bioenergy by Amending the Law Regarding Outdoor Wood Boilers and Outdoor Pellet Boilers" (H.P. 331) (L.D. 502) (Sponsored by Representative ARDELL of Monticello) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ALBERT of Madawaska, BLIER of Buxton, DAIGLE of Fort Kent, PAUL of Winterport, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, Senators: BERNARD of Aroostook, HARRINGTON of York)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Support Healthy Weight by Providing MaineCare Coverage for Certain Weight Loss Medications" (H.P. 309) (L.D. 480) (Sponsored by Representative GRAHAM of North Yarmouth) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, EATON of Deer Isle, ROBERTS of South Berwick, SALISBURY of Westbrook, TERRY of Gorham)
Bill "An Act to Expand Testing for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances to Private Drinking Water Wells" (H.P. 322) (L.D. 493) (Sponsored by Representative OSHER of Orono) (Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford and Representatives: DHALAC of South Portland, DOUDERA of Camden, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, RANA of Bangor, ZAGER of Portland, Senators: INGWERSEN of York, TEPLER of Sagadahoc)
Bill "An Act to Ensure Access to Safe Drinking Water from Household Wells in Rural Areas by Expanding Testing" (H.P. 329) (L.D. 500) (Sponsored by Representative PLUECKER of Warren) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, FLYNN of Albion, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, RANA of Bangor, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, STOVER of Boothbay, Senators: INGWERSEN of York, MOORE of Washington)
Judiciary
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Provide for Parental Rights (H.P. 321) (L.D. 492) (Sponsored by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: DUCHARME of Madison, GIFFORD of Lincoln, GRIFFIN of Levant, HAGGAN of Hampden, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, QUINT of Hodgdon, THORNE of Carmel, WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Marine Resources
Bill "An Act to Provide for a Vessel Breakdown License Exception for Commercial Halibut Fishing License Holders" (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 318) (L.D. 489) (Sponsored by Representative STROUT of Harrington) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representatives: DRINKWATER of Milford, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, QUINT of Hodgdon, TUELL of East Machias, Senator: RENY of Lincoln)
State and Local Government
Bill "An Act to Provide for a 5-year Automatic Repeal of Agency Rules" (H.P. 319) (L.D. 490) (Sponsored by Representative SMITH of Palermo) (Cosponsored by Representatives: COLLINS of Sidney, HAGGAN of Hampden, MINGO of Calais, MORRIS of Turner, OLSEN of Raymond, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
Transportation
Bill "An Act to Reduce Maximum Speeds on Roads Close to Residences" (H.P. 307) (L.D. 478) (Sponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford)
Resolve, Directing the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority to Apply for Federal Funding for the Purpose of Identifying the Rail Corridor Connecting Portland to Orono as an Intercity Passenger Rail Corridor (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 316) (L.D. 487) (Sponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield) (Cosponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, DUCHARME of Madison, FREDETTE of Newport, MONTELL of Gardiner, MOONEN of Portland, SAYRE of Kennebunk, Senators: CYRWAY of Kennebec, HICKMAN of Kennebec)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Update and Clarify Certain Provisions of State Liquor and Lottery Laws" (H.P. 323) (L.D. 494) (Sponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor) (Cosponsored by Representatives: DOUDERA of Camden, GUERRETTE of Caribou) (Submitted by the Department of Administrative and Financial Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
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(2-2) The Following Communication: (H.P. 339)
STATE OF MAINE CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 7, 2025
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 132nd Legislature
Honorable Matthea Daughtry President of the Senate 132nd Legislature
Dear Mr. Speaker and Madam President:
On February 7, 2025, 6 bills were received by the Clerk of the House.
Pursuant to the provisions of Joint Rule 308.2, these bills were referred to the Joint Standing Committees on February 7, 2025, as follows:
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Reverse Recent Changes Made to the Law Governing Net Energy Billing and Distributed Generation" (H.P. 333) (L.D. 515) (Sponsored by Representative SOBOLESKI of Phillips) (Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford and Representatives: CAMPBELL of Orrington, DRINKWATER of Milford, GREENWOOD of Wales, GRIFFIN of Levant, RUDNICKI of Fairfield, STROUT of Harrington, THORNE of Carmel, WOODSOME of Waterboro)
Health and Human Services
Resolve, Increasing Access to Maternal and Child Health Care (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 336) (L.D. 518) (Sponsored by Representative MEYER of Eliot) (Cosponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Remove the Requirement That Individual and Small Group Health Plans Be Offered Through a Pooled Market and to Eliminate the Provision of Law Establishing a Pooled Market for Those Plans" (H.P. 337) (L.D. 519) (Sponsored by Representative MORRIS of Turner) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CIMINO of Bridgton, FLYNN of Albion, FOLEY of Wells, OLSEN of Raymond, Senator: HAGGAN of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Ensure Choices in Health Insurance Markets by Modifying the Provisions of Law Governing Clear Choice Design Health Plans" (H.P. 338) (L.D. 520) (Sponsored by Representative MORRIS of Turner) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CIMINO of Bridgton, FLYNN of Albion, FOLEY of Wells, OLSEN of Raymond, Senator: HAGGAN of Penobscot)
Judiciary
Bill "An Act to Protect the First Amendment Rights of Individuals in the State" (H.P. 335) (L.D. 517) (Sponsored by Representative KUHN of Falmouth)
Transportation
Resolve, to Name the Bridge Between Milford and Old Town the Alton L. Drinkwater Memorial Bridge (H.P. 334) (L.D. 516) (Sponsored by Representative DRINKWATER of Milford) (Cosponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot and Senator: RAFFERTY of York)
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
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(2-3) The Following Communication: (H.C. 59)
STATE OF MAINE 132ND MAINE LEGISLATURE
January 23, 2025
Chief Justice Valerie Stanfill Maine SupremeJudicial Court Capital Judicial Center 1 CourtStreet, Suite 40 Augusta, Maine 04330
Dear Chief Justice ValerieStanfill,
We are pleased to invite you to address a Joint Session of the 132ndMaine Legislature on February 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. concerning the State of the Judiciary and any other matters that you may care to bring to our attention.
We look forward to seeing you then.
Sincerely,
S/Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry President of the Senate
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
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(2-4) The Following Communication: (H.C. 62)
SENATE OF MAINE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
February 7, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt,
Pursuant to my authority under Title 5 MRSA, Part 8, Chapter 310, §3111, I am pleased to appoint the following to the Office of New Americans Advisory Council, effective immediately:
Senator Rick Bennett of Oxford County, representing a member of the Maine State Senate;
Senator Peggy Rotundo of Androscoggin County, representing a member of the Maine State Senate;
Barbara Stoddard of Portland, representing an adult education provider;
Budagu Makoko of Westbrook, representing a small business;
Hermenegildo Paulo of South Portland, representing a school administrative unit;
Mufalo Chitam of Portland, representing a member of the immigrant community.
If you have any questions regarding these appointments, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry President of the Senate
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(2-5) The Following Communication: (H.C. 63)
SENATE OF MAINE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
February 7, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt,
Pursuant to my authority under Title 5, MRSA, Part 10-A, Ch. 319 §3371.2-A, I am pleased to appoint the following to the Maine Fire Protection Services Commission, effective immediately:
Senator Glenn “Chip” Curry of Waldo County, representing a member of the Maine State Senate;
Senator Scott Cyrway of Kennebec County, representing a member of the Maine State Senate.
If you have any questions regarding these appointments, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry President of the Senate
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(2-6) The Following Communication: (H.C. 60)
MAINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT 323 STATE STREET AUGUSTA, MAINE 04330-7131
January 31, 2025
Speaker of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry President of the Senate 3 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0002
Dear SpeakerFecteau and President Daughtry:
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Maine Community College System (MCCS), I respectfully submit the attached report on certain procurements, contributions, and policy changes for the period July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, as requiredby 5 M.R.S.A.§12023.
Combined, the seven collegesand the MCCS System Office make thousandsof purchases each year. To compile this report, MCCS used customized reporting features built into our business management systems. We then tested the validity of those reports and reviewed several transactions with college personnel.
While reporting is complex, our review indicates that the colleges' compliance with existing policiesis extremely high, and expenditures are consistently missionrelated. In thosefew areas where we have identified a need for improvement, refinements have been made or are under way.
MCCS will continue to use its internal controls and annual outside audit to adapt its systems to changing needs, and our Boardof Trustees will continue to monitor compliance through regular reporting and an ongoing dialogue with auditors.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you.
Sincerely yours,
S/David Daigler President
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(2-7) The Following Communication: (H.C. 61)
STATE OF MAINE CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 11, 2025
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear Speaker Fecteau:
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services has approved the requests for "Leave to Withdraw" by the following sponsors:
Representative Cloutier of Lewiston L.D. 49 An Act to Ensure Quality in Personal Care Agencies
Representative Milliken of Blue Hill L.D. 346 An Act to Help Child Care Providers by Requiring Recipients of Benefits to Pay the Difference Between the Amount Reimbursed and the Amount Charged
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
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(2-8) The Following Communication: (H.C. 64)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 11, 2025
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 10, 2025
Shirrin Blaisdell of Manchester and John Beliveau of Portland for reappointment to the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. Pursuant to Title 5 M.R.S.A. §17102, these reappointments are contingent on Confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Labor.
Paul H. Gendreau of Waterville and Ronald P. Green, Jr. of Plymouth for reappointment to the Workers’ Compensation Board. Pursuant to Title 39-A, MRSA §151, these reappointments are contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Labor.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
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(2-9) The Following Communication: (S.P. 174)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
January 30, 2025
Hon. Matthea Daughtry President of the Senate 132nd Legislature
Hon. Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 132nd Legislature
Dear Madam President and Mr. Speaker:
On January 30, 2025, 27 bills were received by the Secretary of the Senate.
Pursuant to the provisions of Joint Rule 308.2, these bills were referred to the Joint Standing Committees on January 30, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Bill "An Act to Require Notification of Certain Outdoor Pesticide Applications" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 142) (L.D. 356) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Senator: GROHOSKI of Hancock, Representatives: DOUDERA of Camden, BELL of Yarmouth, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, CIMINO of Bridgton, EDER of Waterboro)
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Build a Warehouse for Goods and Cargo at Bangor International Airport" (S.P. 136) (L.D. 351) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Replenish the Land for Maine's Future Program" (S.P. 153) (L.D. 362) (Sponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin) (Cosponsored by Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, PIERCE of Cumberland, CYRWAY of Kennebec, GROHOSKI of Hancock, RENY of Lincoln, Representatives: THORNE of Carmel, DUCHARME of Madison, HENDERSON of Rumford)
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Create the School Capital Improvement Fund" (S.P. 155) (L.D. 363) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative BOYER of Cape Elizabeth and Senators: PIERCE of Cumberland, TEPLER of Sagadahoc, HAGGAN of Penobscot, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representative: HEPLER of Woolwich)
Bill "An Act to Authorize General Fund Bond Issues to Improve Highways, Bridges and Nonhighway Modes of Transportation" (S.P. 159) (L.D. 367) (Sponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset) (Cosponsored by Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, HICKMAN of Kennebec, PIERCE of Cumberland, CYRWAY of Kennebec, DUSON of Cumberland, MARTIN of Oxford, Representative: CRAFTS of Newcastle)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Improve Criminal Justice and Public Safety" (S.P. 137) (L.D. 352) (Sponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Improve Education in Maine" (S.P. 140) (L.D. 354) (Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative MURPHY of Scarborough)
Bill "An Act Supporting the Dirigo Reads Literacy Program" (S.P. 151) (L.D. 360) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor and Senator: BENNETT of Oxford, Representatives: SALISBURY of Westbrook, ROEDER of Bangor, RANA of Bangor)
Bill "An Act to Support the Francis Malcolm Science Center" (S.P. 152) (L.D. 361) (Sponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook) (Cosponsored by Representative BABIN of Fort Fairfield and Senator: STEWART of Aroostook, Representatives: QUINT of Hodgdon, UNDERWOOD of Presque Isle, GUERRETTE of Caribou, DAIGLE of Fort Kent)
Bill "An Act to Grant or Extend Conditional Teaching Certificates Under Certain Circumstances"(S.P. 161) (L.D. 369) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CARLOW of Buxton, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, BAGSHAW of Windham, HAGGAN of Hampden)
Bill "An Act to Raise the Minimum State Standard for Mathematics Education for a High School Diploma" (S.P. 162) (L.D. 370) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative CARLOW of Buxton and Senator: RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: LYMAN of Livermore Falls, BAGSHAW of Windham, HAGGAN of Hampden)
Bill "An Act to Require the University of Maine School of Law to Provide an Online Degree Program"(S.P. 170) (L.D. 375) (Sponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook) (Cosponsored by Senators: BAILEY of York, CARNEY of Cumberland, RAFFERTY of York, DUSON of Cumberland, LIBBY of Cumberland)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Prohibit Net Energy Billing by Certain Customers" (S.P. 146) (L.D. 359) (Sponsored by Senator BICKFORD of Androscoggin) (Cosponsored by Senators: CYRWAY of Kennebec, HARRINGTON of York, BRADSTREET of Kennebec, Representative: WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Bill "An Act to Expand Hydroelectric Development by Removing the 100-megawatt Cap" (S.P. 163) (L.D. 371) (Sponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative PAUL of Winterport and Senators: CYRWAY of Kennebec, HARRINGTON of York, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin, Representatives: WADSWORTH of Hiram, FOSTER of Dexter, SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Improve Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes Through Doula Care" (S.P. 172) (L.D. 376) (Sponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc) (Cosponsored by Representative ZAGER of Portland and Senators: MOORE of Washington, INGWERSEN of York, BRENNER of Cumberland, Representatives: SHAGOURY of Hallowell, EATON of Deer Isle, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Advance the Maine Retirement Savings Program" (S.P. 141) (L.D. 355) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative MASTRACCIO of Sanford and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, BALDACCI of Penobscot, ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham, BOYER of Cape Elizabeth, TERRY of Gorham)
Housing and Economic Development
Bill "An Act to Promote Economic Development in Maine" (S.P. 156) (L.D. 364) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo)
Bill "An Act to Respond to the Housing Affordability and Accessibility Crisis in Maine" (S.P. 157) (L.D. 365) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo)
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Bill "An Act Regarding the Operations of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife" (S.P. 134) (L.D. 350) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Judiciary
Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Recommend Methods for Preventing Deed Fraud in the State (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 139) (L.D. 353) (Sponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York) (Cosponsored by Representative DUCHARME of Madison and Senators: PIERCE of Cumberland, CARNEY of Cumberland, BRENNER of Cumberland, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: MALON of Biddeford, SATO of Gorham)
Bill "An Act to Provide Comparable Compensation and Benefits for Deputy and Assistant District Attorneys, Assistant Attorneys General and Public Defenders" (S.P. 166) (L.D. 374) (Sponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin) (Cosponsored by Representative MCCABE of Lewiston and Senators: HAGGAN of Penobscot, STEWART of Aroostook, CARNEY of Cumberland, Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, ABDI of Lewiston, KUHN of Falmouth)
Labor
Bill "An Act to Establish a State Minimum Hourly Wage for Agricultural Workers" (S.P. 143) (L.D. 357) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor and Senators: TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland, TIPPING of Penobscot)
State and Local Government
Bill "An Act to Increase Fees Paid to Registers of Deeds" (S.P. 144) (L.D. 358) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Senators: BAILEY of York, MARTIN of Oxford, LIBBY of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Establish 'Welcome Home' as the Official State Anthem" (S.P. 165) (L.D. 373) (Sponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington) (BY REQUEST) (Cosponsored by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor)
Taxation
Bill "An Act to Ensure Consistency of Income Tax Deductions for Retired Members of the Uniformed Services" (S.P. 158) (L.D. 366) (Sponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset) (Cosponsored by Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, HICKMAN of Kennebec, STEWART of Aroostook, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin, Representatives: PARRY of Arundel, WADSWORTH of Hiram, ZAGER of Portland, FREDETTE of Newport)
Bill "An Act to Protect Maine People from Inflation by Exempting Gold and Silver Coins and Bullion from the State Sales and Use Tax" (S.P. 164) (L.D. 372) (Sponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington) (Cosponsored by Representative GREENWOOD of Wales, Representative QUINT of Hodgdon and Representatives: TUELL of East Machias, LIBBY of Auburn, DANA of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, BOYER of Poland, PAUL of Winterport, MCINTYRE of Lowell, MINGO of Calais)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Address Concerns Regarding Radiation Machines and Similar Equipment Used in the Cannabis Industry" (S.P. 160) (L.D. 368) (Sponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)
Sincerely,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
Comes from the Senate, READ and ORDERED PLACED ON FILE.
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PETITIONS, BILLS AND RESOLVES REQUIRING REFERENCE (3-1) Bill "An Act to Address the Rise in Rabies in Animals by Appointing Certified Rabies Vaccine Administrators" (H.P. 347) (L.D. 528)
Sponsored by Representative DOUDERA of Camden. Cosponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland and Representatives: DILL of Old Town, FROST of Belgrade, MEYER of Eliot, OSHER of Orono, PLUECKER of Warren, Senator: TEPLER of Sagadahoc. Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-2) Bill "An Act to Establish Bail Officers to Administer the Maine Bail Code" (H.P. 346) (L.D. 527)
Sponsored by Representative LEE of Auburn. Cosponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook. Submitted by the Judicial Department pursuant to Joint Rule 204. (3-3) Bill "An Act to Protect Health Care Workers by Addressing Assaults in Health Care Settings" (H.P. 351) (L.D. 532)
Sponsored by Representative STOVER of Boothbay. Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec and Representatives: ABDI of Lewiston, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, NUTTING of Oakland, SALISBURY of Westbrook, Senators: CURRY of Waldo, DUSON of Cumberland, RENY of Lincoln. (3-4) Bill "An Act to Allow Residents of the Department of Corrections to Opt In to Additional Restitution for Their Victims" (H.P. 352) (L.D. 533)
Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill. (3-5) Bill "An Act to Clarify the Rights of Crime Victims and Witnesses Regarding Professional Investigator Communications" (H.P. 353) (L.D. 534)
Sponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield. Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-6) Bill "An Act to Enhance Maine's Wildlife Conservation Efforts and Preserve Maine's Sporting Heritage by Requiring Hunter Safety Education in Schools" (H.P. 362) (L.D. 543)
Sponsored by Representative ARDELL of Monticello. Cosponsored by Representatives: DAIGLE of Fort Kent, NUTTING of Oakland, PAUL of Winterport, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SWALLOW of Houlton, THORNE of Carmel, Senators: BERNARD of Aroostook, HARRINGTON of York. Committee on EDUCATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-7) Bill "An Act to Establish Net Neutrality" (H.P. 355) (L.D. 536)
Sponsored by Representative KESSLER of South Portland. Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGY suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-8) Bill "An Act Regarding Dams" (H.P. 348) (L.D. 529)
Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill. Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, MOONEN of Portland, Senator: GROHOSKI of Hancock. (3-9) Bill "An Act Regarding Dam Ownership" (H.P. 350) (L.D. 531)
Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill. Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, MOONEN of Portland, Senator: GROHOSKI of Hancock. Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-10) Bill "An Act to Identify the State's Unidentified Human Remains" (H.P. 359) (L.D. 540)
Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland. Cosponsored by Senator BICKFORD of Androscoggin and Representatives: FREDERICKS of Sanford, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, HYMES of Waldo, JAVNER of Chester, SUPICA of Bangor, Senators: GROHOSKI of Hancock, HICKMAN of Kennebec, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin. (3-11) Bill "An Act to Promote Awareness of the Maine Parentage Act" (H.P. 360) (L.D. 541)
Sponsored by Representative BRIDGEO of Augusta. (BY REQUEST) Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-12) Bill "An Act to Amend Maine's Prescription Drug Labeling Law by Allowing the Removal of the Name of a Prescriber of Mifepristone, Misoprostol and Their Generic Alternatives" (H.P. 357) (L.D. 538)
Sponsored by Representative CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham. Cosponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland and Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, JULIA of Waterville, KUHN of Falmouth, MATHIESON of Kittery, MOONEN of Portland, WARREN of Scarborough, Senator: BAILEY of York. Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-13) Bill "An Act to Exempt a Person Making Electrical Installations in the Person's Existing Bona Fide Personal Abode from Licensing and Permitting Requirements" (H.P. 364) (L.D. 545)
Sponsored by Representative ROBERTS of South Berwick. Submitted by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation pursuant to Joint Rule 204. (3-14) Resolve, to Require the Preparation of Preapproved Building Types (H.P. 365) (L.D. 546)
Sponsored by Representative GERE of Kennebunkport. Cosponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec and Representatives: BLIER of Buxton, CAMPBELL of Orrington, DOUDERA of Camden, DUCHARME of Madison, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, JULIA of Waterville, MASTRACCIO of Sanford, MINGO of Calais. Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-15) Bill "An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in Housing Based on Source of Income, Veteran Status or Military Status" (H.P. 340) (L.D. 521)
Sponsored by Representative JULIA of Waterville. Cosponsored by Representatives: ABDI of Lewiston, ARCHER of Saco, DEBRITO of Waterville, GERE of Kennebunkport, LOOKNER of Portland, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, ROBERTS of South Berwick. (3-16) Bill "An Act to Change How the Office of the Attorney General Investigates Officer-involved Shootings" (H.P. 342) (L.D. 523)
Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill. (3-17) Bill "An Act to Reduce Trafficking in the State" (H.P. 343) (L.D. 524)
Sponsored by Representative KUHN of Falmouth. (3-18) Bill "An Act to Strengthen Maine Citizens' Second Amendment Rights by Allowing the Discharge of Firearms on Private Property That Is Within 500 Feet of School Property in Certain Circumstances" (H.P. 344) (L.D. 525)
Sponsored by Representative MORRIS of Turner. Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: ARDELL of Monticello, CHAPMAN of Auburn, CIMINO of Bridgton, FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, NUTTING of Oakland, PAUL of Winterport, SMITH of Palermo, WHITE of Guilford. (3-19) Bill "An Act to Authorize Judicial Disposition of a Juvenile Adjudicated of Murder or a Class A Crime to a Term of Commitment Extending Beyond the Juvenile's 21st Birthday" (H.P. 354) (L.D. 535)
Sponsored by Representative FREDETTE of Newport. (3-20) Bill "An Act to Prohibit the Doxing of a Minor and to Authorize a Related Civil Action" (H.P. 356) (L.D. 537)
Sponsored by Representative SACHS of Freeport. Cosponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland and Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, DHALAC of South Portland, KUHN of Falmouth, MOONEN of Portland, OSHER of Orono, RANA of Bangor. Committee on JUDICIARYsuggested and ordered printed.
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(3-21) Resolve, Directing the Permanent Commission on the Status of Women to Study the Extent of Workforce Gender Segregation in the State (H.P. 341) (L.D. 522)
Sponsored by Representative COPELAND of Saco. Cosponsored by President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland and Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, BECK of South Portland, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, O'HALLORAN of Brewer, ROEDER of Bangor, SACHS of Freeport, SARGENT of York, SINCLAIR of Bath. (3-22) Bill "An Act Regarding Occupational Licensing Reform" (H.P. 349) (L.D. 530)
Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland. (3-23) Bill "An Act to Repeal the Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Program"(EMERGENCY) (H.P. 358) (L.D. 539)
Sponsored by Representative RUDNICKI of Fairfield. Cosponsored by Representatives: CHAPMAN of Auburn, DUCHARME of Madison, EDER of Waterboro, LANCE of Paris, QUINT of Hodgdon, SOBOLESKI of Phillips, STROUT of Harrington, Senator: BERNARD of Aroostook. Committee on LABORsuggested and ordered printed.
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(3-24) Bill "An Act Regarding Municipal Property Tax Levy Limits" (H.P. 361) (L.D. 542)
Sponsored by Representative ADAMS of Lebanon. Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-25) Bill "An Act to Reduce the Time Period for Challenging the Validity of a Property Tax Lien on Commercial Real Estate" (H.P. 345) (L.D. 526)
Sponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford. Cosponsored by Representatives: COLLAMORE of Pittsfield, GERE of Kennebunkport, LEE of Auburn, Senator: MARTIN of Oxford. (3-26) Bill "An Act to Create Parity in the Taxation of Medicine by Exempting Sales of Cannabis for Medical Use" (H.P. 363) (L.D. 544)
Sponsored by Representative FREDERICKS of Sanford. Cosponsored by Representative: HENDERSON of Rumford, Senator: HICKMAN of Kennebec. Committee on TAXATIONsuggested and ordered printed.
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(3-27) Bill "An Act to Modify Maine Motor Vehicle Inspection Standards to Permit Exterior, Nonstructural Corrosion That Does Not Directly Affect the Passenger Compartment" (H.P. 366) (L.D. 547)
Sponsored by Representative ARDELL of Monticello. Cosponsored by Representatives: NUTTING of Oakland, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft.
Committee on TRANSPORTATIONsuggested and ordered printed.
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(4-1) On motion of Representative MOONEN of Portland, the following Joint Order: (H.P. 367)
ORDERED, the Senate concurring, that the Joint Rules be amended by amending Joint Rule 310, subsection 2, last paragraph to read:
Except for Leave to Withdraw, the committee shall vote on all recommendations to be included in reports on a bill during a work session on that bill. When the committee recommendation is not unanimous, a minority report or reports are required. Minority committee reports, except as provided in subsection 4, paragraph A, must be voted on at the same work session as the majority report on that bill. A committee vote to report a bill out favorably must be taken based on written language before the committee at that time or on a motion describing the content of the report. After a committee vote, no substantive change may be made in the committee report unless motions to reconsider and to amend the report are approved at a committee work session. All reports on any legislative document must be submitted to the Legislature at the same time.
ORDERED, the Senate concurring, that the Joint Rules be amended by amending Joint Rule 310, subsection 4, paragraph A to read:
A. If any member is absent from the committee at the time of the vote, that member’s vote may be registered with the clerk up until noon on the 2nd business day following the vote. A member may register a vote only on a report that was made when the vote was taken by the committee. A member may not register a vote with the clerk creating an additional report other than Ought Not to Pass.
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(4-2) On motion of Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston, the following House Order: (H.O. 13)
ORDERED, that Representative Michael F. Brennan of Portland be excused Jan 21 for health reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Benjamin C. Hymes of Waldo be excused Feb 4 for health reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Robert W. Nutting of Oakland be excused Jan 28 for health reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Reagan L. Paul of Winterport be excused Jan 21 for personal reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Nathan J. Wadsworth of Hiram be excused Jan 14 for personal reasons.
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SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR
In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items: Recognizing: (5-1) the Washington Academy Girls Volleyball Team, of East Machias, which won the Class B State Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 46)
(5-2) Emmett Appel, of Windsor, who has been named a delegate to the 2025 United States Senate Youth Program, one of only two delegates from Maine. The United States Senate Youth Program was developed to provide a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students interested in pursuing careers in public service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 47)
(5-3) Cummings Health Care Facility, Inc., of Howland, on the celebration of the facility's 51st Anniversary. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 48)
(5-4) Jamier Rose, of Berwick, a senior and a football player at Noble High School, who has been awarded the James J. Fitzpatrick Trophy. The Fitzpatrick Trophy is given to the top senior high school football player in the State based on voting by the State's coaches and the media. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 49)
(5-5) Ryan Bailey, of Old Town, a sergeant with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department Honorable Service Award and the Community Service Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 50)
(5-6) Joseph Decoteau, of Old Town, a sergeant with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department 2024 Police Officer of the Year Award, the Honorable Service Award and the Physical Fitness Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 51)
(5-7) Lucas Murphy, of Old Town, a detective with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department Honorable Service Award, the Physical Fitness Award and the Specialization Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 52)
(5-8) Catherine Ludwig, of Veazie, an officer with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department Honorable Service Award and the Community Service Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 53)
(5-9) Alan Reese, of Old Town, an officer with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department Military Service Award and the Excellence in Police Duty Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 54)
(5-10) Chelsea Brasslett, of Milford, an officer with the Old Town Police Department, who received the Old Town Police Department Excellence in Police Duty Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 55)
(5-11) Phillip and Reta Thebarge, of Norridgewock, to whom the Town of Norridgewock has dedicated its Town Report in recognition of their many contributions to the community. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 58)
(5-12) Todd D. Pineo, of Norridgewock, for his 25 years of public service on the Norridgewock Water District Board of Trustees. We extend our appreciation and best wishes;
(SLS 59)
(5-13) Donna Moore Hays, of Bath, Assessing Agent for the Town of Norridgewock, who has served the people of the Norridgewock for 30 years. We extend our appreciation and best wishes;
(SLS 60)
(5-14) Waste Management - Crossroads, of Norridgewock, 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 61)
(5-15) Jeff McGown, of Norridgewock, 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 62)
(5-16) Henry Mahoney, of Saco, who has received the Frank J. Gaziano Memorial Offensive Lineman Award as the State's top offensive lineman. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 63)
(5-17) Addison Cyr, of Lincoln, a player on the Mattanawcook Academy girls basketball team, who recently scored her 1,000th career point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 64)
(5-18) Swan Agency Real Estate, of Bar Harbor, on the celebration of its 50th Anniversary. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 68)
(5-19) the Ellsworth American on the newspaper's 175th Anniversary. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 69)
(5-20) Lauren Jakub, of Chelsea, who was named American Miss National Mrs. at the American Miss National Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 36) Presented by Representative LEMELIN of Chelsea. Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec.
In Memory of: (5-21) Mary Arnold Cady, of Orono. Ms. Cady was a veteran of the United States Army Reserve. A master-level USA Track and Field Certified Official, she was heavily involved in Maine track and field for nearly 50 years. She directed Penobscot Valley Conference track and field and the Eastern Maine Indoor Track League for many years, and she frequently timed meets throughout Maine. Over the years, she mentored and taught many officials, coaches and athletes. Ms. Cady will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(SLS 56)
(5-22) Tomlin Perkins Coggeshall, of Westport, New York. Beginning in 1980, Mr. Coggeshall worked in marketing, development and sales in Boston, Massachusetts, Topsham and Rockland, offering platforms for information technology solutions and promoting clean alternative energies, especially green hydrogen. He cultivated support for land conservation efforts, worked with colleagues at the Hydrogen Energy Center, volunteered on Democratic committees, presided over Newcastle's Glidden Cemetery Association and, not unlike his grandmother, the first female United States Secretary of Labor, Frances Perkins, worked to educate others about the ethical relevance of New Deal programs. Mr. Coggeshall will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 57)
(5-23) Donald Nelson Hanscom, of Lee. Mr. Hanscom began his working life at a young age hauling potatoes for local farmers. Later, he drove for Coles Express of Bangor as a delivery driver throughout the State followed by years of driving as a long-haul trucker for Great Northern Paper, the recycling plant at GNP in East Millinocket and Timberland Trucking of Medway. In retirement, he worked for Raymond's Variety. Mr. Hanscom will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 65)
(5-24) David Winfield Riefler, of Hall Quarry. Mr. Riefler was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Second World War. He worked at Winchester Arms in New Haven, Connecticut, where as a mathematician he analyzed and improved on the ballistics of firearms. Mr. Riefler will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 66)
(5-25) William T. McCarthy, of Ellsworth. Mr. McCarthy was a veteran of both the United States Air Force and the United States Army. He served in the United States Air Force band and in the United States Army Field Band as a percussionist and musical arranger of the band's jazz and dance ensemble, which toured the country and also provided music for various government and military functions in the Washington, D.C. area. He worked for WDEA AM FM Coastal Broadcasting Company in Ellsworth from 1959 to 1967 as Program Director, Sales Manager and Radio Station Manager. He worked for the Maine Employment Security Commission from 1967 to 1968 and the United States Department of Labor as a wage and hour investigator from 1968 to 1985. He was known as "Mr. Equal Pay" by his coworkers in Boston and worked in the northern New England branch office in Bangor. After he retired from government service, Mr. McCarthy worked as a substitute teacher for Ellsworth High School, where he was affectionately known as "Mr. Bill." Throughout his life, he was a freelance musician working at major resort hotels and clubs in New England and New York, providing music and entertainment for dining, dancing and shows. He also worked with many local musicians, including with the Somes Sound Jazz Bands Main Rhythm Trio with Rick Dostie and Don Knowles. Mr. McCarthy will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 67)
(5-26) Duane Bickford, of Fairfield. Mr. Bickford served his community as a member of the Fairfield Fire Department for 32 years. Joining as a volunteer, he later served full time and became Fire Chief in 2000. He retired from the fire service in 2023. He was a member of the Maine Fire Chiefs' Association, serving a term as the association's president, and of the Maine Fire Protection Services Commission. He trained both new and old recruits at Kennebec Valley Community College and was greatly involved with creating the fire training center, a project years in the making. After he retired, he was elected to serve on the Fairfield Town Council. Mr. Bickford will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 70)
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CONSENT CALENDAR
First Day
In accordance with House Rule 519, the following item appeared on the Consent Calendar for the First Day: (7-1) (H.P. 131) (L.D. 209) Bill "An Act to Make Supplemental Appropriations and Allocations from the General Fund and Other Funds for the Expenditures of State Government and to Change Certain Provisions of the Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025"(EMERGENCY) Committee on APPROPRIATIONS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-1)
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ORDERS OF THE DAY HOUSE CALENDAR
The following matter, in the consideration of which the House was engaged at the time of adjournment, has preference in the Orders of the Day and continues with such preference until disposed of as provided by House Rule 502.
1. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Diana Allen, of Ogunquit (HLS 28)
TABLED - February 4, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative MASTRACCIO of Sanford. PENDING - PASSAGE.
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STATUTORY ADJOURNMENT DATE June 18, 2025
State of Maine http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 1
(1-1) The following Joint Order: (S.P. 234)
ORDERED, the House concurring, that when the Senate and House adjourn, they do so until Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 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 http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 2
(1-1) Bill "An Act to Support Outdoor, Agricultural-based and Hands-on Experiential Learning in Public Schools" (S.P. 202) (L.D. 550)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY and ordered printed.
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(1-2) Bill "An Act to Create a Separate Department of Child and Family Services" (S.P. 217) (L.D. 555)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESand ordered printed.
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(1-3) Bill "An Act to Create an Outfitter License for Owners and Operators of Hunting, Fishing and Recreation Businesses Who Are Not Maine Guides" (S.P. 204) (L.D. 552)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on INLAND FISHERIES AND WILDLIFEand ordered printed.
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(1-4) Bill "An Act to Establish a Statewide Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Kit Tracking System and Update Certain Requirements Regarding Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Kits" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 199) (L.D. 549)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on JUDICIARY and ordered printed.
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(1-5) Bill "An Act to Assert State Sovereignty over Ocean Waters and Marine Resources up to 12 Nautical Miles off the State's Coast" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 208) (L.D. 553)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on MARINE RESOURCES and ordered printed.
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(1-6) Bill "An Act to Restore Balanced Emergency Powers" (S.P. 203) (L.D. 551) (1-7) Bill "An Act to Preserve Heating and Energy Choice by Prohibiting a Municipality from Prohibiting a Particular Energy System or Energy Distributor" (S.P. 218) (L.D. 556)
Come from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTand ordered printed.
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(1-8) Bill "An Act to Encourage Resident-owned Communities and Cooperatives and Preserve Affordable Housing Through Tax Credits" (S.P. 211) (L.D. 554)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on TAXATION and ordered printed.
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(1-9) Bill "An Act to Allow All-terrain Vehicles to Be Used on a Public Way" (S.P. 231) (L.D. 557)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on TRANSPORTATION and ordered printed.
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(1-10) Bill "An Act Regarding Intoxicating Hemp Products" (S.P. 195) (L.D. 548)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on VETERANS AND LEGAL AFFAIRSand ordered printed.
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State of Maine http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 3
(2-1) The Following Communication: (S.P. 220)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 5, 2025
Hon. Matthea Daughtry President of the Senate 132nd Legislature
Hon. Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 132nd Legislature
Dear Madam President and Mr. Speaker:
On February 5, 2025, 25 bills were received by the Secretary of the Senate.
Pursuant to the provisions of Joint Rule 308.2, these bills were referred to the Joint Standing Committees on February 5, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Bill "An Act to Address Food Insecurity by Helping Maine Residents Access Locally Produced Food"(S.P. 206) (L.D. 468) (Sponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York) (Cosponsored by Representative HALL of Wilton and Senators: BLACK of Franklin, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, PLUECKER of Warren, SALISBURY of Westbrook, DUCHARME of Madison, SAYRE of Kennebunk)
Bill "An Act to Support Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in Maine" (S.P. 213) (L.D. 473) (Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Fund Rural Patrol Services in Washington County" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 194) (L.D. 461) (Sponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington) (Cosponsored by Representative MINGO of Calais and Representatives: TUELL of East Machias, FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, QUINT of Hodgdon, DANA of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, STROUT of Harrington, MCINTYRE of Lowell)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Fund Climate Resiliency Projects Related to the Repair of Campus Infrastructure Used for Active Transportation and Outdoor Recreation" (S.P. 190) (L.D. 457) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative BECK of South Portland and Senator: CURRY of Waldo, Representatives: KESSLER of South Portland, DHALAC of South Portland, BOYER of Cape Elizabeth)
Bill "An Act to Require School Administrative Units to Adopt Mentoring Programs for Teachers and to Improve Existing Programs" (S.P. 209) (L.D. 470) (Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative MURPHY of Scarborough and Senators: PIERCE of Cumberland, INGWERSEN of York, RENY of Lincoln, Representatives: DODGE of Belfast, SARGENT of York, MITCHELL of Cumberland)
Resolve, to Establish a Pilot Program to Expand Intensive English Language Learner Programs (S.P. 210) (L.D. 471) (Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative MITCHELL of Cumberland and Senator: BALDACCI of Penobscot, Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DHALAC of South Portland, RANA of Bangor, MURPHY of Scarborough, SARGENT of York, YUSUF of Portland)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Extend the Law Governing Electric Power and Service Residential Rates for Military Veterans' Organizations" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 201) (L.D. 466) (Sponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock)
Bill "An Act to Prioritize State Access to Electricity Generated in Canada via High-impact Electric Transmission Lines" (S.P. 207) (L.D. 469) (Sponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative SOBOLESKI of Phillips and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, CYRWAY of Kennebec, HARRINGTON of York, BRADSTREET of Kennebec, STEWART of Aroostook, Representatives: FOSTER of Dexter, SMITH of Palermo)
Environment and Natural Resources
Bill "An Act to Update Waste Discharge License Fees" (S.P. 200) (L.D. 465) (Sponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock) (Submitted by the Department of Environmental Protection pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Improve Maine's Environment and Protect Natural Resources" (S.P. 214) (L.D. 474) (Sponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc) (Cosponsored by Senator: MARTIN of Oxford)
Bill "An Act to Ban the Sale of Polystyrene Packing Peanuts in the State" (S.P. 216) (L.D. 476) (Sponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc) (Cosponsored by Representative DOUDERA of Camden and Representatives: GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, ANKELES of Brunswick)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Require the State to Pay 90 Percent of All General Assistance Expenses of Municipalities and Indian Tribes" (S.P. 186) (L.D. 453) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Regulate the Use of Prior Authorization for Health Care Provider Services" (S.P. 192) (L.D. 459) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo)
Judiciary
Bill "An Act to Improve Public Defense Services" (S.P. 189) (L.D. 456) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Improve Court Procedure and Update Family Law" (S.P. 191) (L.D. 458) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland)
Labor
Bill "An Act to Amend the Eligibility Criteria for Creditable Service in the Armed Forces of the United States Under the Maine Public Employees Retirement System" (S.P. 196) (L.D. 462) (Sponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook)
Bill "An Act to Require the State to Pay Medicare Part B Premiums for Certain Retired State Employees" (S.P. 205) (L.D. 467) (Sponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec) (Cosponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, MOORE of Washington, TIPPING of Penobscot, Representatives: DODGE of Belfast, SHAGOURY of Hallowell)
Marine Resources
Bill "An Act to Protect Maine's Marine Resources" (S.P. 215) (L.D. 475) (Sponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc) (Cosponsored by Senator: MOORE of Washington)
State and Local Government
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Provide for the Popular Election of the Secretary of State and the Attorney General by Ranked-choice Voting (S.P. 185) (L.D. 452) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Require a Statewide Popular Election of the Secretary of State, the Treasurer of State and the Attorney General for 4-year Terms (S.P. 188) (L.D. 455) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset and Senators: HICKMAN of Kennebec, BRADSTREET of Kennebec, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin, Representative: SUPICA of Bangor)
Transportation
Resolve, to Rename a Bridge in Newfield the Dam's Mills Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 193) (L.D. 460) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland)
Resolve, to Rename the New Ten Mile River Bridge on Pequawket Trail in Brownfield the Brownfield Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 197) (L.D. 463) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Resolve, to Rename the Brackett Mill Bridge in Denmark the Brackett Mill Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 198) (L.D. 464) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative CIMINO of Bridgton)
Resolve, Directing the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission and the New England and Eastern Canada Legislative Commission to Examine Restoring Passenger Rail from Boston to Montreal (S.P. 212) (L.D. 472) (Sponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin) (Cosponsored by Senators: STEWART of Aroostook, BALDACCI of Penobscot, TIPPING of Penobscot, Representative: BABIN of Fort Fairfield)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Allow Candidates for Secretary of State or Attorney General to Participate in the Maine Clean Election Act" (S.P. 187) (L.D. 454) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Sincerely,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
Comes from the Senate, READ and ORDERED PLACED ON FILE.
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(2-2) The Following Communication: (S.P. 235)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 7, 2025
Hon. Matthea Daughtry President of the Senate 132nd Legislature
Hon. Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 132nd Legislature
Dear Madam President and Mr. Speaker:
On February 7, 2025, 12 bills were received by the Secretary of the Senate.
Pursuant to the provisions of Joint Rule 308.2, these bills were referred to the Joint Standing Committees on February 7, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Bill "An Act to Require the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands to Maintain the Weld to Byron Road in Township 6 North of Weld" (S.P. 228) (L.D. 510) (Sponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin) (Cosponsored by Representative HALL of Wilton and Senator: MARTIN of Oxford, Representatives: PLUECKER of Warren, BUNKER of Farmington, DILL of Old Town)
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue for Research and Development and Commercialization" (S.P. 224) (L.D. 506) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, GROHOSKI of Hancock, Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, STROUT of Harrington)
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Fund LifeFlight of Maine" (S.P. 225) (L.D. 507) (Sponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook) (Cosponsored by Representative MATLACK of St. George and Senators: FARRIN of Somerset, MOORE of Washington, BALDACCI of Penobscot, BERNARD of Aroostook, Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, STOVER of Boothbay, BUNKER of Farmington, LAJOIE of Lewiston)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Provide Educational Opportunities for Students in Secondary Schools with 200 or Fewer Students" (S.P. 230) (L.D. 512) (Sponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative BAGSHAW of Windham and Representatives: LYMAN of Livermore Falls, HAGGAN of Hampden)
Bill "An Act to Allow the Spouse of a School Board Member to Serve as a Stipend Employee Within the School Board's Jurisdiction" (S.P. 232) (L.D. 513) (Sponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington) (Cosponsored by Representative TUELL of East Machias and Representatives: QUINT of Hodgdon, SAYRE of Kennebunk, STROUT of Harrington, MCINTYRE of Lowell)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act Regarding the Substance Use Disorder Services Commission" (S.P. 221) (L.D. 503) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor and Senators: FARRIN of Somerset, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: STOVER of Boothbay, RANA of Bangor)
Resolve, to Raise MaineCare Reimbursement Rates for Detoxification Services for Substance Use Disorder Treatment (S.P. 233) (L.D. 514) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor and Senators: FARRIN of Somerset, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: STOVER of Boothbay, RANA of Bangor)
Judiciary
Bill "An Act to Improve Family Court Procedure" (S.P. 222) (L.D. 504) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford and Senators: BAILEY of York, STEWART of Aroostook, Representatives: POIRIER of Skowhegan, KUHN of Falmouth, BABIN of Fort Fairfield, CARUSO of Caratunk, O'HALLORAN of Brewer)
Bill "An Act to Update Processes and Fees in the Probate Court System" (S.P. 223) (L.D. 505) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative COLLINS of Sidney and Senators: BRADSTREET of Kennebec, LAWRENCE of York, Representatives: STOVER of Boothbay, HASENFUS of Readfield, KUHN of Falmouth, SINCLAIR of Bath)
Labor
Bill "An Act to Allow a Journeyman Electrician to Supervise 3 Helper Electricians" (S.P. 227) (L.D. 509) (Sponsored by Senator TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin) (Cosponsored by Representative LYMAN of Livermore Falls and Senators: BLACK of Franklin, FARRIN of Somerset, CYRWAY of Kennebec, BICKFORD of Androscoggin)
State and Local Government
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Require Constitutional Officers to Be Elected by Popular Election (S.P. 226) (L.D. 508) (Sponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook) (Cosponsored by Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, HICKMAN of Kennebec, FARRIN of Somerset, BALDACCI of Penobscot, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin, Representatives: WARREN of Scarborough, SUPICA of Bangor)
Transportation
Resolve, to Direct the Department of Transportation to Implement the Recommendations of the Portland to Auburn Rail Use Advisory Council (S.P. 229) (L.D. 511) (Sponsored by Senator DUSON of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative BELL of Yarmouth and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, PIERCE of Cumberland, FARRIN of Somerset, BICKFORD of Androscoggin, Representatives: KUHN of Falmouth, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth)
Sincerely,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
Comes from the Senate, READ and ORDERED PLACED ON FILE.
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