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The House CalendarThe Advance Journal and Calendar of the House of Representatives Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.
Prayer by Pastor Ernie Farrar, United Methodist Church, New Harbor.
National Anthem by Embry Bivigou Pangou, Pihcintu Multinational Girls' Choir, Portland.
Pledge of Allegiance.
Reading of the Journal of Tuesday, February 11, 2025. _________________________________
(1-1) The following Joint Resolution: (S.P. 219)
JOINT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2025 AS 211 MAINE MONTH
WHEREAS,211 Maine is a Maine-based health and human services and emergency preparedness and response helpline that provides Maine people free and confidential referrals to needed resources; and
WHEREAS, 211 Maine provides around-the-clock service statewide, offering efficient and effective responses from people employed in Maine to questions arising from the growing complexities in health, financial and human services and the needs of Maine people, and offers interpreter services to those whose first language is not English; and
WHEREAS, since 2006, 211 Maine call specialists have assisted with requests for information regarding topics ranging from substance use and recovery services to housing support and food resources, in 2024 fielding over 75,000 calls, text messages and e‑mails from people looking for help for themselves or someone they know, amounting to over 271,000 minutes of service; and
WHEREAS, 211 Maine provides emergency operations support during times of natural and other disasters, including assisting the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Emergency Management Agency, fielding calls from those impacted by windstorms and floods, collecting critical data and helping people find winter warming shelters or cooling centers; and
WHEREAS, this past year, 211 Maine directly distributed over $208,000 in emergency heating assistance, potentially preventing utility shut-offs and keeping people from spending winter nights in the cold; and
WHEREAS, 211 Maine handles a number of specialized services and partnerships, including the opiate helpline and the gambling helpline and serving as the centralized access point for the Help Me Grow Maine program, helping families with children from birth to 8 years of age get connected to needed services, and is also a resource for finding information about needs such as COVID-19 advice, tax preparation and browntail moth caterpillar prevention, mitigation and treatment; and
WHEREAS, 211 Maine provides a powerful example of how the government and nonprofit and private sectors can work together to improve the quality of life of the people of Maine; 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 February 2025 as 211 Maine Month.
Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.
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(1-2) The following Joint Resolution: (S.P. 236)
JOINT RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF STAGECOACH MARY FIELDS
WHEREAS, standing six feet tall and powerfully built, Stagecoach Mary struck fear in the hearts of bandits in the American Old West. Stagecoach Mary Fields carried a gun, smoked, drank and had a wicked temper. Mary was the first African American woman to carry mail on a Star Route for the United States Post Office Department; and
WHEREAS, Mary Fields was born into slavery in either 1832 or 1833; her exact birthday is unknown. Mary’s birthplace and other details about her early childhood are also unknown. What is known is that she worked for the Warner family in West Virginia in the years leading up to the Civil War. Mary was emancipated in 1863 or shortly after the Civil War; she then moved from West Virginia and went up the Mississippi River, where she worked on steamboats; and
WHEREAS, Mary ended up in Toledo, Ohio. There, Mary began working at Ursuline Convent of the Sacred Heart. There is debate over how and why Mary ended up working at the convent, yet what is known is that Mary’s gruff style was not something that fit into the serene calm of the convent; and
WHEREAS, during her time at the convent, Mary washed laundry, bought supplies, managed the kitchen and grew and maintained the garden and grounds. Mary was known to lose her temper and was quick to yell at anyone who stepped on the grass after she had cut it; and
WHEREAS, it is unclear why Mary left Toledo. Many sources think that she moved to take care of an ill friend. Mother Amadeus Dunne, who had been Mother Superior in Toledo before moving west, had fallen ill. Mary and Mother Amadeus were known friends. Some records date their friendship all the way back to the Warren family in West Virginia, though this claim is not substantiated; and
WHEREAS, once she arrived in the West, Mary got to work. Mary mainly worked for Saint Peter’s Mission near Cascade, Montana, where she did many of the jobs she had done before in Toledo. This mission was run by Ursuline nuns and was where Mother Amadeus Dunne resided. Mary performed maintenance and repair work. She also gardened and did the laundry. One major thing that Mary was also in charge of was the locating and delivery of supplies needed for the mission. Yet Mary had no official contract with the mission and nuns; thus, she was free to come and go as she pleased, taking additional work outside the mission; and
WHEREAS, Mary was unfortunately dismissed from the mission. This was due in part to her crass behavior, unruly temper and penchant for drinking and smoking in saloons with men. The final straw appears to involve an argument in which Mary and another mission janitor, a man, got into a fight and were agitated to the point that both drew guns. While neither ever fired their gun, this incident was enough to make the bishop of the area demand that the nuns relieve her of her duties;and
WHEREAS, Mary moved to neighboring Cascade, Montana, where she tried but failed to open one or more eateries. They were said to have failed due to her giving nature of allowing folks who could not pay to eat for free. Mary also reportedly set up a laundry shop and did other odd jobs to make money. It is around this time that Mary’s drinking, gun toting and smoking become well known to the townspeople of Cascade; and
WHEREAS, in 1895, in her early sixties, Mary obtained a contract with the United States Post Office Department to be a Star Route Carrier. A Star Route Carrier was an independent contractor who used a stagecoach to deliver the mail in the harsh weather of northern Montana. Mary was the first African American woman and the second woman to receive a Star Route contract from the United States Post Office Department. This contract was secured with the help of the Ursuline nuns. The nuns wished to look out for Mary as they felt connected with her. This was because they did not wish to see her go as the nuns heavily relied on Mary for work done around the mission; and
WHEREAS, Mary built a reputation of being fearless while working as a mail carrier. Mary’s job was not only to deliver the mail but to also protect the mail from bandits, thieves, wolves and the weather as well. Mary gained her nickname “Stagecoach Mary” due to her use of a stagecoach as a method of transportation to deliver the mail. Mary was also known for the guns she carried. During the time that Mary was delivering the mail, she was known to carry both a rifle and a revolver;and
WHEREAS, Mary spent 8 years delivering the mail as a Star Route Carrier. During this time, Mary became beloved by the locals of Cascade, Montana for her fearlessness and generosity, as well as for her kindness to children. Mary retired from being a Star Route Carrier in the early 20th century. After her retirement, Mary settled into life in Cascade, Montana; and
WHEREAS, upon retiring, Mary started a laundry business in town. She also opened an eatery as well as babysat the local children. She remained famous, even becoming the mascot for the town’s baseball team. Mary was beloved by the people of Cascade, so much so that she drank in saloons for free and ate for free at local restaurants and hotels; and
WHEREAS, Mary Fields died on December 5, 1914. After her death, the townspeople raised money to have her buried in a cemetery on a road she drove frequently that linked Cascade to the mission. Mary’s funeral was said to be one of the largest ever held in town; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the First Regular Session, pause in our deliberations to celebrate the life of Stagecoach Mary Fields.
Comes from the Senate, READ and ADOPTED.
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(2-1) The Following Communication: (H.P. 470)
STATE OF MAINE CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 20, 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 20, 2025, 100 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 20, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Resolve, to Study Barriers to Financial Assistance Programs for Farmers and Food Producers (H.P. 374) (L.D. 606) (Sponsored by Representative PLUECKER of Warren)
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act Making Certain Supplemental Appropriations and Allocations and Changing Certain Provisions of Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government"(H.P. 376) (L.D. 608) (Sponsored by Representative GATTINE of Westbrook)
Bill "An Act Making Certain Appropriations and Allocations and Changing Certain Provisions of Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government" (H.P. 377) (L.D. 609) (Sponsored by Representative GATTINE of Westbrook)
Bill "An Act to Provide Appropriations and Allocations for the Operations of State Government" (H.P. 444) (L.D. 705) (Sponsored by Representative GATTINE of Westbrook)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Explicitly Allow the Department of Corrections to Charge Room and Board to Residents Who Perform Remote Work in Detention and Correctional Facilities and to Amend the Laws Governing Rehabilitative Programs" (H.P. 394) (L.D. 626) (Sponsored by Representative NUTTING of Oakland) (Submitted by the Department of Corrections pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Improve Training Opportunities for Law Enforcement Officers" (H.P. 407) (L.D. 639) (Sponsored by Representative CROCKETT of Portland) (Cosponsored by Representative SARGENT of York)
Bill "An Act Regarding Telephone and Video Call Access in Detention and Correctional Facilities and Jails" (H.P. 415) (L.D. 647) (Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill) (Cosponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, BOYER of Poland, FREDERICKS of Sanford, GUERRETTE of Caribou, MATHIESON of Kittery, SARGENT of York, SAYRE of Kennebunk, WARREN of Scarborough)
Bill "An Act to Expand the Supervised Community Confinement Program" (H.P. 416) (L.D. 648) (Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill) (Cosponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland and Representatives: HASENFUS of Readfield, MATHIESON of Kittery, SARGENT of York, SAYRE of Kennebunk, WARREN of Scarborough, WEBB of Durham)
Bill "An Act to Prevent Domestic Violence by Providing Adequate Funding Support for Court-ordered Certified Domestic Violence Intervention Programs" (H.P. 434) (L.D. 666) (Sponsored by Representative GATTINE of Westbrook) (Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox and Representatives: HASENFUS of Readfield, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, Senator: CURRY of Waldo)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Maine Criminal Code Governing Restitution to Include the Costs of All Analyses of Suspected Illegal Drugs" (H.P. 456) (L.D. 717) (Sponsored by Representative BISHOP of Bucksport) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: ARDELL of Monticello, LIBBY of Auburn, PAUL of Winterport, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, WHITE of Guilford, WHITE of Ellsworth)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Share of State Funding for the County Jail Operations Fund" (H.P. 458) (L.D. 719) (Sponsored by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook) (Cosponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook and Representatives: DUCHARME of Madison, HASENFUS of Readfield, LAJOIE of Lewiston, LOOKNER of Portland)
Bill "An Act Requiring the Maine Criminal Justice Academy to Develop a Nonresidential Basic Law Enforcement Training Program" (H.P. 462) (L.D. 723) (Sponsored by Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston) (Cosponsored by Senator BICKFORD of Androscoggin and Representatives: ABDI of Lewiston, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, LEE of Auburn, LIBBY of Auburn, MCCABE of Lewiston, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SARGENT of York, WOOD of Greene)
Bill "An Act to Protect Municipalities' Investment in Law Enforcement Officers" (H.P. 465) (L.D. 726) (Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland) (Cosponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, HASENFUS of Readfield, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, WHITE of Ellsworth, Senators: BEEBE-CENTER of Knox, BENNETT of Oxford, GROHOSKI of Hancock, TIPPING of Penobscot)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Require the Approval of Superintendent Agreements Regarding Transfers of Students Between School Administrative Units" (H.P. 375) (L.D. 607) (Sponsored by Representative LIBBY of Auburn) (Cosponsored by Representatives: BOYER of Poland, FOLEY of Wells, FOSTER of Dexter, HAGGAN of Hampden, LANCE of Paris, OLSEN of Raymond, POIRIER of Skowhegan)
Bill "An Act Regarding Eligibility to Apply for a Department of Education Diploma" (H.P. 396) (L.D. 628) (Sponsored by Representative BRENNAN of Portland) (Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York and Representatives: BRIDGEO of Augusta, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DHALAC of South Portland, DODGE of Belfast, MURPHY of Scarborough, RANA of Bangor, STOVER of Boothbay, Senator: PIERCE of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Provide Students in the University of Maine System Who Are Parents or Pregnant Individuals Priority Registration for Courses" (H.P. 410) (L.D. 642) (Sponsored by Representative GRIFFIN of Levant) (Cosponsored by Representatives: COLLAMORE of Pittsfield, COLLINS of Sidney, HAGGAN of Hampden, SMITH of Palermo)
Resolve, to Study the Effects of Artificial Intelligence, Cellular Telephones and Social Media on Public Education (H.P. 411) (L.D. 643) (Sponsored by Representative BRENNAN of Portland) (Cosponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland and Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DODGE of Belfast, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, LOOKNER of Portland, MURPHY of Scarborough, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SARGENT of York, Senator: RAFFERTY of York)
Bill "An Act to Provide Transparency and Public Access to Public School Curricula" (H.P. 428) (L.D. 660) (Sponsored by Representative CARUSO of Caratunk) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: COLLINS of Sidney, DAIGLE of Fort Kent, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SMITH of Palermo, THORNE of Carmel, WALKER of Naples, Senator: LIBBY of Cumberland)
Resolve, Directing the Department of Education to Report on Financial Literacy Education in the System of Learning Results (H.P. 440) (L.D. 701) (Sponsored by Representative ROLLINS of Augusta) (Cosponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec and Representatives: BRIDGEO of Augusta, DHALAC of South Portland, GATTINE of Westbrook, HAGGAN of Hampden)
Bill "An Act to Fund an Administrative Structure of an Emergency Medical Services Education Program in the Community College System" (H.P. 461) (L.D. 722) (Sponsored by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DUCHARME of Madison)
Bill "An Act to Repeal Certain Immunization Requirements for Schools" (H.P. 466) (L.D. 727) (Sponsored by Representative QUINT of Hodgdon) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: BOYER of Poland, CARUSO of Caratunk, FOLEY of Wells, HYMES of Waldo, JAVNER of Chester, PAUL of Winterport, SMITH of Palermo, SWALLOW of Houlton)
Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 132: Learning Results: Parameters for Essential Instruction, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Education (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 469) (L.D. 730) (Submitted by the Department of Education pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, section 8072.)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Remove State-imposed Referendum Requirements Regarding Nuclear Power" (H.P. 369) (L.D. 601) (Sponsored by Representative PAUL of Winterport) (Cosponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York and Representatives: ALBERT of Madawaska, CAMPBELL of Orrington, FOSTER of Dexter, MCINTYRE of Lowell, WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Bill "An Act Concerning the Restoration of Electricity During Emergencies for Certain Medically Vulnerable Individuals Who Rely on Electronic Medical Apparatuses" (H.P. 401) (L.D. 633) (Sponsored by Representative FRIEDMANN of Bar Harbor)
Bill "An Act to Create Equal Opportunity Access to Clean Energy by Removing the 100-megawatt Limit on Clean Energy Sources" (H.P. 406) (L.D. 638) (Sponsored by Representative ARDELL of Monticello) (Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook and Representatives: DAIGLE of Fort Kent, HENDERSON of Rumford, PAUL of Winterport, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SWALLOW of Houlton)
Bill "An Act to Facilitate the State Meeting Its Climate Goals While Protecting Farms"(H.P. 450) (L.D. 711) (Sponsored by Representative COLLAMORE of Pittsfield) (Cosponsored by Representatives: DILL of Old Town, GUERRETTE of Caribou, HALL of Wilton, LANIGAN of Sanford, ROBERTS of South Berwick)
Bill "An Act to Advance Equitable Energy Policy in Maine" (H.P. 464) (L.D. 725) (Sponsored by Representative WARREN of Scarborough)
Environment and Natural Resources
Bill "An Act to Provide Solutions for Sustainable Management of Municipal Solid Waste" (H.P. 373) (L.D. 605) (Sponsored by Representative CAMPBELL of Orrington)
Bill "An Act to Implement Portions of the 'Protecting Maine's Beaches for the Future: 2017 Update' Report Regarding Beach Nourishment and Dune Restoration Projects"(H.P. 398) (L.D. 630) (Sponsored by Representative FOLEY of Wells)
Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study Unregulated Storm Water Pollution (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 414) (L.D. 646) (Sponsored by Representative BELL of Yarmouth) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, BRIDGEO of Augusta, DOUDERA of Camden, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, OSHER of Orono, RIELLY of Westbrook, TERRY of Gorham)
Bill "An Act to Clarify Performance Standards for Quarries" (H.P. 443) (L.D. 704) (Sponsored by Representative PLUECKER of Warren)
Bill "An Act to Allow for Rescission of a Site Location of Development Permit When a Development Is Decommissioned" (H.P. 447) (L.D. 708) (Sponsored by Representative BRIDGEO of Augusta) (Submitted by the Department of Environmental Protection pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Ensure Access to Concurrent Methadone Treatment and Intensive Outpatient Programs" (H.P. 372) (L.D. 604) (Sponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor) (Cosponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot and Representatives: BOYER of Poland, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, LOOKNER of Portland, MASTRACCIO of Sanford, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, WARREN of Scarborough, Senator: BRENNER of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Require the Department of Health and Human Services to Review Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefits Transfer Card Transactions and Lottery Operations" (H.P. 380) (L.D. 612) (Sponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representatives: ALBERT of Madawaska, CIMINO of Bridgton, COLLINS of Sidney, COOPER of Windham, DAIGLE of Fort Kent, HAGGAN of Hampden, OLSEN of Raymond, QUINT of Hodgdon)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Maine Death with Dignity Act to Ensure Access by Qualified Patients"(H.P. 381) (L.D. 613) (Sponsored by Representative MEYER of Eliot) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representatives: KUHN of Falmouth, MATHIESON of Kittery, STOVER of Boothbay, ZAGER of Portland, Senators: BAILEY of York, CARNEY of Cumberland, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, INGWERSEN of York)
Bill "An Act to Enhance Support Services for Individuals with an Acquired Brain Injury" (H.P. 391) (L.D. 623) (Sponsored by Representative HEPLER of Woolwich) (Cosponsored by Representatives: BUNKER of Farmington, DILL of Old Town, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, SARGENT of York, Senator: BLACK of Franklin)
Bill "An Act Supporting Education for the Rural Health Care Workforce" (H.P. 393) (L.D. 625) (Sponsored by Representative OSHER of Orono) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representatives: EATON of Deer Isle, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, OLSEN of Raymond, ZAGER of Portland, Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, TIPPING of Penobscot)
Resolve, Directing the Department of Health and Human Services to Evaluate the Municipal General Assistance Program Database (H.P. 405) (L.D. 637) (Sponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford) (Cosponsored by Representatives: COLLINS of Sidney, DAIGLE of Fort Kent, HAGGAN of Hampden, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, QUINT of Hodgdon)
Bill "An Act to Support Municipal Public Health" (H.P. 418) (L.D. 650) (Sponsored by Representative GRAHAM of North Yarmouth) (Cosponsored by Representatives: MEYER of Eliot, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, WEBB of Durham, ZAGER of Portland)
Bill "An Act to Modify the Law Governing Municipal General Assistance by Designating Broadband Internet Access Service and Wireless Access Point Technology as Basic Necessities" (H.P. 425) (L.D. 657) (Sponsored by Representative SIMMONS of Waldoboro)
Bill "An Act to Establish the Respite for ME Program" (H.P. 448) (L.D. 709) (Sponsored by Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston) (Submitted by the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Expand Access and Reduce Barriers to Access to Naloxone Hydrochloride and Other Opioid Overdose-reversing Medications" (H.P. 449) (L.D. 710) (Sponsored by Representative ZAGER of Portland) (Submitted by the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Clarify the Relationship Between Palliative Care Physicians and Hospital Physicians" (H.P. 451) (L.D. 712) (Sponsored by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico) (Cosponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec and Representatives: BAGSHAW of Windham, FREDERICKS of Sanford, GRIFFIN of Levant, HALL of Wilton, LAVIGNE of Berwick, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, OLSEN of Raymond, SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
Resolve, to Support the Full Implementation of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the State (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 460) (L.D. 721) (Sponsored by Representative GRAHAM of North Yarmouth) (Cosponsored by Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DEBRITO of Waterville, DHALAC of South Portland, MCCABE of Lewiston, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, STOVER of Boothbay, Senator: MOORE of Washington)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Require Insurance Coverage for Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Medication" (H.P. 395) (L.D. 627) (Sponsored by Representative STOVER of Boothbay) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, DHALAC of South Portland, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, MEYER of Eliot, ROBERTS of South Berwick, ROEDER of Bangor, SALISBURY of Westbrook)
Bill "An Act to Change the Size and Composition of the Board of Directors of the Maine Health Data Organization" (H.P. 413) (L.D. 645) (Sponsored by Representative MATHIESON of Kittery) (Submitted by the Maine Health Data Organization pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Certify Chiropractic Assistants Who Perform X-rays as Radiologic Technologists"(H.P. 417) (L.D. 649) (Sponsored by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CIMINO of Bridgton, MORRIS of Turner, Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, HAGGAN of Penobscot, MARTIN of Oxford)
Bill "An Act Regarding Health Care" (H.P. 431) (L.D. 663) (Sponsored by Representative MATHIESON of Kittery)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Membership of the State Employee Health Commission and Make Referential Changes to the Office of Employee Health, Wellness and Workers' Compensation" (H.P. 446) (L.D. 707) (Sponsored by Representative MATHIESON of Kittery) (Submitted by the Department of Administrative and Financial Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Protect Federal Home Loan Banks That Lend Money to Insurer Members That Become Delinquent" (H.P. 459) (L.D. 720) (Sponsored by Representative FOLEY of Wells) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: FLYNN of Albion, MORRIS of Turner, OLSEN of Raymond, Senator: BAILEY of York)
Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 800: Uniform Reporting of Wholesale Acquisition Costs for Insulin, a Major Substantive Rule of the Maine Health Data Organization (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 468) (L.D. 729) (Submitted by the Maine Health Data Organization pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, section 8072.)
Housing and Economic Development
Bill "An Act to Ensure That the Exemption of Certain Agricultural Buildings from the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code Includes Maple Sugarhouses" (H.P. 371) (L.D. 603) (Sponsored by Representative COOPER of Windham) (Cosponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec and Representatives: BAGSHAW of Windham, CIMINO of Bridgton, COLLINS of Sidney, CRAY of Palmyra, GUERRETTE of Caribou, HALL of Wilton, JACKSON of Oxford, OLSEN of Raymond)
Bill "An Act to Restore Matching Funding to the Maine Development Foundation" (H.P. 397) (L.D. 629) (Sponsored by Representative ROBERTS of South Berwick) (Cosponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo and Representatives: COLLAMORE of Pittsfield, DILL of Old Town, DUCHARME of Madison, GERE of Kennebunkport, STOVER of Boothbay, WALKER of Naples, Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, MOORE of Washington)
Bill "An Act to Support Diversion Efforts to Address Homelessness in Maine" (H.P. 409) (L.D. 641) (Sponsored by Representative MALON of Biddeford) (Cosponsored by Senator BAILEY of York and Representative: SACHS of Freeport)
Bill "An Act to Fund the Maine Health Care Provider Loan Repayment Program" (H.P. 419) (L.D. 651) (Sponsored by Representative MURPHY of Scarborough) (Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York and Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DODGE of Belfast, MITCHELL of Cumberland, Senator: PIERCE of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Reduce Housing Costs by Not Requiring Fire Sprinkler Systems for Single-family Homes and Duplexes" (H.P. 427) (L.D. 659) (Sponsored by Representative CRAFTS of Newcastle) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, COLLAMORE of Pittsfield, GERE of Kennebunkport, KESSLER of South Portland, MORRIS of Turner, ROBERTS of South Berwick, Senator: BAILEY of York)
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Bill "An Act to Restrict the Hunting of Coyotes" (H.P. 455) (L.D. 716) (Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill) (Cosponsored by Representatives: GOLEK of Harpswell, MATHIESON of Kittery, PUGH of Portland)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding Smelt Fishing" (H.P. 467) (L.D. 728) (Sponsored by Representative DILL of Old Town) (Cosponsored by Representatives: BRIDGEO of Augusta, DRINKWATER of Milford, HEPLER of Woolwich, MASON of Lisbon, THORNE of Carmel)
Judiciary
Resolve, to Direct the Attorney General to Drop the Lawsuit Filed Against Big Oil Companies Concerning Climate Change (H.P. 403) (L.D. 635) (Sponsored by Representative TUELL of East Machias) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: FOSTER of Dexter, JAVNER of Chester, MINGO of Calais, MORRIS of Turner, POIRIER of Skowhegan, SMITH of Palermo, STROUT of Harrington, WOOD of Norway)
Bill "An Act Requiring Certain Fees Charged by the Courts for Court-ordered Payments Be Capped and Paid by the Defendant" (H.P. 408) (L.D. 640) (Sponsored by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford) (Cosponsored by Representatives: BRIDGEO of Augusta, CARUSO of Caratunk, FREDERICKS of Sanford, LEE of Auburn, LYMAN of Livermore Falls)
Bill "An Act to Adjust the Maximum Small Claim Limit Based on the Consumer Price Index" (H.P. 422) (L.D. 654) (Sponsored by Representative KESSLER of South Portland) (Cosponsored by Senator LAWRENCE of York and Representatives: MCINTYRE of Lowell, POIRIER of Skowhegan)
Bill "An Act to Address Coercive Control in Domestic Abuse Cases" (H.P. 438) (L.D. 670) (Sponsored by Representative EATON of Deer Isle) (Cosponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland and Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, COPELAND of Saco, GRAHAM of North Yarmouth, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, ROEDER of Bangor, STOVER of Boothbay, WEBB of Durham, Senator: GROHOSKI of Hancock)
Labor
Bill "An Act to Allow Minors Under 16 Years of Age to Work Until 9 p.m. During the School Year and Until 10 p.m. During Summer Vacation" (H.P. 386) (L.D. 618) (Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland) (Cosponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, CHAPMAN of Auburn, FOLEY of Wells, MASON of Lisbon, MCINTYRE of Lowell, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SIMMONS of Waldoboro, WHITE of Ellsworth)
Bill "An Act to Expand Employment Opportunities for Minor Students by Eliminating Certain Work Limitations" (H.P. 412) (L.D. 644) (Sponsored by Representative COLLINS of Sidney) (Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec and Representatives: DRINKWATER of Milford, FROST of Belgrade, HAGGAN of Hampden, HENDERSON of Rumford, PARRY of Arundel, POIRIER of Skowhegan, ROLLINS of Augusta, Senator: BRADSTREET of Kennebec)
Bill "An Act to Allow Teachers to Qualify for Overtime Pay" (H.P. 421) (L.D. 653) (Sponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor)
Bill "An Act Establishing a State Minimum Hourly Wage for Agricultural Workers" (H.P. 423) (L.D. 655) (Sponsored by Representative BRENNAN of Portland) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DHALAC of South Portland, DODGE of Belfast, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SKOLD of Portland, STOVER of Boothbay, Senator: PIERCE of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Improve Unemployment Insurance" (H.P. 432) (L.D. 664) (Sponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor)
Bill "An Act Regarding Labor" (H.P. 437) (L.D. 669) (Sponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Laws Relating to Unemployment Insurance" (H.P. 445) (L.D. 706) (Sponsored by Representative ARCHER of Saco) (Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Marine Resources
Bill "An Act Related to Marine Resources and Maine's Working Waterfront" (H.P. 387) (L.D. 619) (Sponsored by Representative HEPLER of Woolwich)
State and Local Government
Bill "An Act Regarding the Notification Process for Competitive Bids" (H.P. 370) (L.D. 602) (Sponsored by Representative CAMPBELL of Orrington)
Bill "An Act to Provide Funding to the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission to Commemorate the United States of America's 250th Birthday in 2026" (H.P. 384) (L.D. 616) (Sponsored by Representative GREENWOOD of Wales) (Cosponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot and Representative: SALISBURY of Westbrook, Senator: MARTIN of Oxford)
Resolve, to Create the Commission to Study a Legislative Internship Program (H.P. 392) (L.D. 624) (Sponsored by Representative OSHER of Orono) (Cosponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot and Representatives: RANA of Bangor, SARGENT of York, SATO of Gorham, STROUT of Harrington, Senator: LIBBY of Cumberland)
Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Reduction of Unfunded and Outdated Municipal and County Mandates (H.P. 402) (L.D. 634) (Sponsored by Representative TUELL of East Machias) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representatives: FOSTER of Dexter, JAVNER of Chester, MINGO of Calais, MORRIS of Turner, POIRIER of Skowhegan, STROUT of Harrington, WOOD of Norway, WOODSOME of Waterboro)
Bill "An Act to Designate January 6th as A Day to Remember and to Preserve the Accounts of Witnesses to the Events of January 6, 2021" (H.P. 441) (L.D. 702) (Sponsored by Representative MACIAS of Topsham) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ARCHER of Saco, BELL of Yarmouth, BRIDGEO of Augusta, ROLLINS of Augusta, TERRY of Gorham)
Bill "An Act to Recognize Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as State Holidays" (H.P. 463) (L.D. 724) (Sponsored by Representative ABDI of Lewiston) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham, DEBRITO of Waterville, DHALAC of South Portland, MACIAS of Topsham, MCCABE of Lewiston, MONTELL of Gardiner, RANA of Bangor, SATO of Gorham)
Taxation
Bill "An Act to Modify Current Property Tax Assessment Methods to Make Property Taxes Affordable for Longtime Property Owners" (H.P. 382) (L.D. 614) (Sponsored by Representative FOSTER of Dexter) (Cosponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook and Representatives: DRINKWATER of Milford, GUERRETTE of Caribou, MCINTYRE of Lowell, RUDNICKI of Fairfield, SWALLOW of Houlton, Senators: BALDACCI of Penobscot, CYRWAY of Kennebec, HAGGAN of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Allow a Local Option Sales Tax on Short-term Lodging to Fund Affordable Housing"(H.P. 400) (L.D. 632) (Sponsored by Representative SKOLD of Portland) (Cosponsored by Senator DUSON of Cumberland and Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, DODGE of Belfast, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, FRIEDMANN of Bar Harbor, GOLEK of Harpswell, HASENFUS of Readfield, MATLACK of St. George, RANA of Bangor)
Bill "An Act to Provide Qualifying Downtown Businesses and Developments with Assistance Paying Flood Insurance Premiums" (H.P. 420) (L.D. 652) (Sponsored by Representative ROLLINS of Augusta) (Cosponsored by Representatives: COPELAND of Saco, MATLACK of St. George, MONTELL of Gardiner, ROEDER of Bangor, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, TUELL of East Machias, Senator: MARTIN of Oxford)
Bill "An Act to Lower Property Taxes by Increasing the Homestead Property Tax Exemption" (H.P. 426) (L.D. 658) (Sponsored by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor) (Cosponsored by Senator BICKFORD of Androscoggin and Representatives: BAGSHAW of Windham, EDER of Waterboro, GREENWOOD of Wales, GRIFFIN of Levant, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, PARRY of Arundel, RUDNICKI of Fairfield, SMITH of Palermo)
Bill "An Act to Abolish the Maine Income Tax and Establish a Zero-based Budget" (H.P. 439) (L.D. 671) (Sponsored by Representative LIBBY of Auburn) (Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: BOYER of Poland, HAGGAN of Hampden, MINGO of Calais, MORRIS of Turner, OLSEN of Raymond)
Bill "An Act Regarding Taxation" (H.P. 452) (L.D. 713) (Sponsored by Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Tax Laws" (H.P. 453) (L.D. 714) (Sponsored by Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston)
Bill "An Act to Provide Property Tax Relief by Increasing the Availability of the Property Tax Fairness Credit Based on a Resident's Age and Income" (H.P. 454) (L.D. 715) (Sponsored by Representative MILLIKEN of Blue Hill)
Transportation
Resolve, to Designate a Portion of Route 234 in the Town of New Vineyard and the Town of Anson in Honor of Corporal Andrew L. Hutchins (H.P. 378) (L.D. 610) (Sponsored by Representative MORRIS of Turner) (Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin and Representatives: CARUSO of Caratunk, HALL of Wilton)
Bill "An Act to Allow the Secretary of State to Collect Excise Taxes on Motor Vehicles Owned by Residents Who Are Unhoused" (H.P. 379) (L.D. 611) (Sponsored by Representative SAYRE of Kennebunk) (Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York and Representatives: CRAFTS of Newcastle, JULIA of Waterville, KUHN of Falmouth, LEE of Auburn, MOONEN of Portland, RANA of Bangor, SATO of Gorham)
Resolve, to Rename a Bridge in the Town of Waterboro the Waterboro Veterans Memorial Bridge (H.P. 385) (L.D. 617) (Sponsored by Representative EDER of Waterboro) (Cosponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York and Representatives: FREDERICKS of Sanford, PARRY of Arundel, WOODSOME of Waterboro)
Resolve, to Rename a Bridge in Mattawamkeag the Mattawamkeag Veterans Memorial Bridge (H.P. 389) (L.D. 621) (Sponsored by Representative QUINT of Hodgdon)
Bill "An Act to Implement a Surcharge on Electric Vehicle Registration" (H.P. 390) (L.D. 622) (Sponsored by Representative HEPLER of Woolwich) (Cosponsored by Representatives: ANKELES of Brunswick, CRAFTS of Newcastle, DILL of Old Town, DRINKWATER of Milford, MASON of Lisbon, PARRY of Arundel)
Bill "An Act to Amend Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements" (H.P. 429) (L.D. 661) (Sponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor)
Bill "An Act to Modernize the State Motor Vehicle Inspection Program and the Law Governing Inspection Fees" (H.P. 435) (L.D. 667) (Sponsored by Representative PARRY of Arundel) (Cosponsored by Representative: CRAFTS of Newcastle)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Initiate Recounts in Tied Elections" (H.P. 368) (L.D. 600) (Sponsored by Representative MALON of Biddeford) (Cosponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot and Representatives: BUNKER of Farmington, FROST of Belgrade)
Bill "An Act Regarding Elections" (H.P. 383) (L.D. 615) (Sponsored by Representative GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach)
Bill "An Act to Provide Support Services for Military Members Transitioning to Civilian Life in Maine" (H.P. 388) (L.D. 620) (Sponsored by Representative TERRY of Gorham) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, GATTINE of Westbrook, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, MACIAS of Topsham, ZAGER of Portland)
Bill "An Act to Allow a Home Distiller to Distill and Share Homemade Spirituous Liquor" (H.P. 399) (L.D. 631) (Sponsored by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico) (BY REQUEST) (Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford and Representatives: BAGSHAW of Windham, HALL of Wilton, HENDERSON of Rumford, LAVIGNE of Berwick, LYMAN of Livermore Falls, OLSEN of Raymond, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
Bill "An Act to Remove the Limit on Free Promotional Merchandise Bars and Restaurants May Accept from Vendors" (H.P. 404) (L.D. 636) (Sponsored by Representative ARDELL of Monticello)
Bill "An Act to Save Tax Dollars in Maine's Elections by Amending the Laws Governing When a Ranked-choice Voting Count Must Be Conducted" (H.P. 424) (L.D. 656) (Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland) (Cosponsored by Senator TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin and Representatives: CARLOW of Buxton, CHAPMAN of Auburn, FREDERICKS of Sanford, HYMES of Waldo, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft)
Bill "An Act to Fund Military Sexual Trauma Liaisons" (H.P. 430) (L.D. 662) (Sponsored by Representative RIELLY of Westbrook) (Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec and Representatives: MCINTYRE of Lowell, MEYER of Eliot, SUPICA of Bangor)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Use of Military Protective Orders in Protection from Abuse and Protection from Harassment Proceedings" (H.P. 433) (L.D. 665) (Sponsored by Representative RIELLY of Westbrook) (Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec and Representatives: MCINTYRE of Lowell, SUPICA of Bangor)
Bill "An Act to Abolish Ranked-choice Voting" (H.P. 436) (L.D. 668) (Sponsored by Representative UNDERWOOD of Presque Isle) (Cosponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland and Representatives: ADAMS of Lebanon, BAGSHAW of Windham, CAMPBELL of Orrington, COLLINS of Sidney, HAGGAN of Hampden, QUINT of Hodgdon, SOBOLESKI of Phillips, THORNE of Carmel)
Bill "An Act to Require Municipal Clerks to Issue Absentee Ballots Only to Residents of That Municipality and to Eliminate Ongoing Absentee Voter Status" (H.P. 457) (L.D. 718) (Sponsored by Representative ADAMS of Lebanon)
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
_________________________________
(2-2) The Following Communication: (H.C. 65)
STATE OF MAINE SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT 163 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0163
January 24, 2025
Hon. Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry President of the Senate 3 State House Station Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Hon. Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, Maine 04333-0002
Re: State of the Judiciary
Greetings,
Thank you for your invitation of January 23, 2025. Please be advised that I am pleased to accept your invitation and will be in attendance to address the Joint Session of the 132nd Maine Legislature on February 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. concerning the State of the Judiciary.
Very truly yours,
S/Valerie Stanfill Chief Justice
_________________________________
(2-3) The Following Communication: (H.C. 66)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 10, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt,
Pursuant to my authority under M.R.S.A. Title 3, §231, I am pleased to appoint the following Representatives to the New England and Eastern Canada Legislative Commission, effective immediately.
These four members of the House of Representatives are the members who I have appointed to the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission:
Representative Christopher Kessler of South Portland Representative Daniel Sayre of Kennebunk Representative Mark Blier of Buxton Representative Lucien Daigle of Fort Kent
If you have any questions regarding these appointments, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-4) The Following Communication: (H.C. 67)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 10, 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 3, MRSA, Chapter 10, §227, I am pleased to appoint the following to the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission, effective immediately:
Honorable Anne Perry of Calais as a member who is a citizen of this State; Honorable Joyce Maker of Calais as a member who is a citizen of this State; Honorable Christopher Kessler of South Portland as a member of the House of Representatives; Honorable Daniel Sayre of Kennebunk as a member of the House of Representatives; Honorable Mark Blier of Buxton as a member of the House of Representatives; and Honorable Lucien Daigle of Fort Kent as a member of the House of Representatives and as a member who is fluent in the French language.
Should you have any questions regarding these appointments, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-5) The Following Communication: (H.C. 68)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 19, 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 7, MRSA, Part 1, Ch. 5, §125.2-G, I am pleased to reappoint Representative William Pluecker of Warren to the Board of Agriculture, effective immediately.
Representative Pluecker will continue to serve on this board as the member of the House of Representatives who is a member of the Joint Standing Committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over agricultural matters.
If you have any questions regarding this appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-6) The Following Communication: (H.C. 69)
SENATE OF MAINE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
February 12, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt,
Pursuant to my authority under MRSA, Title 3, §231, I am pleased to appoint the following to the New England and Eastern Canada Legislative Commission, effective immediately.
These four members of the Maine State Senate are the members who I have appointed to the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission:
Senator Rick Bennett of Oxford County Senator Stacey Guerin of Penobscot County Senator Mike Tipping of Penobscot County Senator Mark Lawrence of York County
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
_________________________________
(2-7) The Following Communication: (H.C. 70)
SENATE OF MAINE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
February 12, 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 3, MRSA, Chapter 10, §227, I am pleased to appoint the following to the Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission, effective immediately:
Honorable Rick Bennett of Oxford County as a member of the Senate; Honorable Stacey Guerin of Penobscot County as a member of the Senate; Honorable Mike Tipping of Penobscot County as a member of the Senate; and Honorable Mark Lawrence of York County as a member of the Senate and as a member who is fluent in the French language.
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
_________________________________
(2-8) The Following Communication: (H.C. 73)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 24, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt:
Pursuant to my authority under House Rule 201.1 (I) (a), I rescind the appointment of Representative Randall Hall of Wilton from the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, effective immediately.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-9) The Following Communication: (H.C. 71)
STATE OF MAINE CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 25, 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 Committee on Judiciary has approved the request by the sponsor, Representative Hasenfus of Readfield, to report the following "Leave to Withdraw:"
L.D. 43 An Act to Further Protect Victims from Contact Prohibited by Probation Conditions
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, the Committee on Taxation has approved the request by the sponsor, Representative Flynn of Albion, to report the following "Leave to Withdraw:"
L.D. 190 An Act to Exempt Certain Numismatic Transactions from State Sales Tax
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
_________________________________
(2-10) The Following Communication: (H.C. 72)
STATE OF MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER'S OFFICE AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
February 25, 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 19, 2025
Michael J. Foley, Jr. of Cape Elizabeth and Simon Ferland of Bangor as new appointments and William C. Tracy as a reappointment to serve on the Finance Authority of Maine Pursuant to Title 10, MRSA §965, these appointments and reappointment are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Housing and Economic Development
Edward S. David of Farmington for reappointment to the Maine Human Rights Commission. Pursuant to Title 5 MRSA §4561, this reappointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary
Sincerely,
S/Ryan D. Fecteau Speaker of the House
_________________________________
(2-11) The Following Communication: (S.C. 100)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 11, 2025
Honorable Ryan Fecteau Speaker of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0002
Dear Speaker Fecteau:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A. §158 and Joint Rule 506 of the 132nd Maine Legislature, please be advised that the Senate today confirmed the following nominations:
Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs: · Claire Jeffers of Portland for appointment, to the Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, · Janet May of Bangor for appointment, to the Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, · Jason A. Bubier of Ellsworth for reappointment, to the Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, · Thomas W. Minch of Cumberland for reappointment, to the Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, · Elizabeth A. Seal of Lisbon Falls for reappointment, to the Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf, · Stacey M. Harris of Windham for appointment, to the Maine Community College System, Board of Trustees, · Elise Baldacci of North Yarmouth for reappointment, to the University of Maine System, Board of Trustees, · Riley Worth of Sabattus for appointment, to the University of Maine System, Board of Trustees. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Housing and Economic Development · F. Jay Astle of Brunswick for appointment, to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority, · Linda E. Smith of Richmond for appointment, to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Judiciary · The Honorable Brent Davis of Skowhegan for reappointment, as a District Court Judge, · The Honorable Tammy Ham-Thompson of Hallowell for reappointment, as a District Court Judge, · The Honorable Lea-Anne Sutton of Gorham for reappointment, as a District Court Judge, · The Honorable Ann M. Murray of Bangor for reappointment, as a Superior Court Justice.
Best Regards,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
_________________________________
PETITIONS, BILLS AND RESOLVES REQUIRING REFERENCE (3-1) Bill "An Act to Establish a Comprehensive Program to Divert Youth from the Criminal Justice System and Address Their Needs" (H.P. 482) (L.D. 740)
Sponsored by Representative LOOKNER of Portland. Cosponsored by Senator LAWRENCE of York and Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, GATTINE of Westbrook, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, HASENFUS of Readfield, MCCABE of Lewiston, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, MOORE of Washington. Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-2) Bill "An Act to Promote Voter Registration for Students in Maine's High Schools" (H.P. 476) (L.D. 734)
Sponsored by Representative MCCABE of Lewiston. Cosponsored by Representatives: ABDI of Lewiston, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DODGE of Belfast, JULIA of Waterville, MACIAS of Topsham, SATO of Gorham, SHAGOURY of Hallowell, WARREN of Scarborough. (3-3) Bill "An Act to Improve Ferry Service Reliability by Providing Scholarships at the Maine Maritime Academy" (H.P. 478) (L.D. 736)
Sponsored by Representative RAY of Lincolnville. Cosponsored by Representative: DODGE of Belfast. Committee on EDUCATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-4) Bill "An Act to Protect Sand Dunes on Sears Island and to Establish Criteria for Legislation Regarding Land Development" (H.P. 477) (L.D. 735)
Sponsored by Representative PAUL of Winterport. Cosponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock and Representatives: COLLINS of Sidney, DANA of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, HAGGAN of Hampden, SIMMONS of Waldoboro, SOBOLESKI of Phillips, STROUT of Harrington, WHITE of Guilford, WHITE of Ellsworth. Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-5) Bill "An Act to Improve the Efficiency of Certain Department of Health and Human Services Licensing Investigations" (H.P. 494) (L.D. 764)
Sponsored by Representative MEYER of Eliot. Submitted by the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204. (3-6) Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program" (H.P. 495) (L.D. 765)
Sponsored by Representative MEYER of Eliot. Submitted by the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204. (3-7) Bill "An Act to Protect the Children of Maine" (H.P. 496) (L.D. 766)
Sponsored by Representative MEYER of Eliot. Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-8) Bill "An Act to Establish a Health Care Gap Year Program for Recent College Graduates" (H.P. 442) (L.D. 703)
Sponsored by Representative RANA of Bangor. Cosponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York and Representatives: DHALAC of South Portland, DODGE of Belfast, SKOLD of Portland, Senators: BALDACCI of Penobscot, BENNETT of Oxford, BERNARD of Aroostook, RENY of Lincoln. (3-9) Bill "An Act to Permit Telehealth Services Across State Lines Following Referral from a Primary Care Provider Based in the State" (H.P. 484) (L.D. 742)
Sponsored by Representative FREDETTE of Newport. (3-10) Bill "An Act to Increase the Availability and Affordability of Health Care by Eliminating Certificate of Need Requirements" (H.P. 485) (L.D. 743)
Sponsored by Representative LIBBY of Auburn. Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: BOYER of Poland, FOLEY of Wells, NUTTING of Oakland. Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-11) Bill "An Act to Make Changes to the Law Based on a Pilot Project Conducted by the Maine State Housing Authority Regarding Efforts to Improve Access to Credit for Low-income Renters" (H.P. 475) (L.D. 733)
Sponsored by Representative ZAGER of Portland. Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford and Representatives: BLIER of Buxton, GERE of Kennebunkport. (3-12) Bill "An Act to Increase Preparedness for Solar Power Adoption in Maine" (H.P. 483) (L.D. 741)
Sponsored by Representative SKOLD of Portland. Cosponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock and Representatives: GEIGER of Rockland, GERE of Kennebunkport, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, SAYRE of Kennebunk, WARREN of Scarborough, WEBB of Durham. (3-13) Bill "An Act to Provide Funds to Reduce Student Homelessness" (H.P. 489) (L.D. 747)
Sponsored by Representative BRENNAN of Portland. Cosponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland and Representatives: CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DODGE of Belfast, GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, LOOKNER of Portland, MALON of Biddeford, MURPHY of Scarborough, SALISBURY of Westbrook, Senator: RAFFERTY of York. (3-14) Bill "An Act to Increase Bridging Rental Assistance Program Housing Voucher Funding to Reduce the Current Partial Waiting List and Increase Housing Vouchers for Persons Living with Mental Health Challenges" (H.P. 490) (L.D. 748)
Sponsored by Representative GOLEK of Harpswell. Cosponsored by Representatives: BRIDGEO of Augusta, COPELAND of Saco, DEBRITO of Waterville, DHALAC of South Portland, EATON of Deer Isle, GERE of Kennebunkport, JULIA of Waterville, MATHIESON of Kittery. Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-15) Bill "An Act Regarding a So-called Clean Slate Initiative for Arrest and Conviction Records" (H.P. 479) (L.D. 737)
Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland. (3-16) Bill "An Act to Remove Barriers to Becoming a Lawyer by Establishing a Law Office Study Program" (H.P. 480) (L.D. 738)
Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland. Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec and Representatives: LEE of Auburn, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, QUINT of Hodgdon, SUPICA of Bangor, WARREN of Scarborough, Senators: BAILEY of York, BENNETT of Oxford, TIPPING of Penobscot. (3-17) Bill "An Act to Reimburse the City of Ellsworth for an Access Road to a New Court Facility in Hancock County" (H.P. 481) (L.D. 739)
Sponsored by Representative WHITE of Ellsworth. Cosponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock and Representatives: BISHOP of Bucksport, FRIEDMANN of Bar Harbor, MCINTYRE of Lowell. Committee on JUDICIARYsuggested and ordered printed.
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(3-18) Bill "An Act to Prohibit Municipalities from Barring the Creation of Homeless Shelters" (H.P. 473) (L.D. 731)
Sponsored by Representative LOOKNER of Portland. Cosponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot and Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, BRENNAN of Portland, BRIDGEO of Augusta, CLOUTIER of Lewiston, DEBRITO of Waterville, EDER of Waterboro, SALISBURY of Westbrook, SUPICA of Bangor. (3-19) Bill "An Act to Prohibit Copyrights for Works of State Government" (H.P. 474) (L.D. 732)
Sponsored by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan. Cosponsored by Representatives: DUCHARME of Madison, GRIFFIN of Levant, MORRIS of Turner, QUINT of Hodgdon. (3-20) Bill "An Act to Ensure That the Will of the Voters Is Reflected in Interim Appointments of United States Senators" (H.P. 491) (L.D. 749)
Sponsored by Representative BOYER of Poland. Cosponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot and Representatives: CHAPMAN of Auburn, DRINKWATER of Milford, FROST of Belgrade, HENDERSON of Rumford, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft, WARREN of Scarborough, Senators: GROHOSKI of Hancock, HICKMAN of Kennebec. (3-21) Bill "An Act to Require Bleeding Control Kits in State-owned Buildings" (H.P. 497) (L.D. 774)
Sponsored by Representative PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft. Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec and Representatives: ARDELL of Monticello, BUNKER of Farmington, FOSTER of Dexter, LAJOIE of Lewiston, MCINTYRE of Lowell, NUTTING of Oakland, Senators: MOORE of Washington, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin. (3-22) Bill "An Act Requiring Voter Approval of Legislative and Gubernatorial Pay Increases" (H.P. 498) (L.D. 775)
Sponsored by Representative TUELL of East Machias. Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington and Representative: MCINTYRE of Lowell. Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT suggested and ordered printed.
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(3-23) Bill "An Act to Remove Certain Wharves and Piers from the Laws Governing the Current Use Valuation of Working Waterfront Land" (H.P. 486) (L.D. 744)
Sponsored by Representative ANKELES of Brunswick. Cosponsored by Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, HEPLER of Woolwich, RIELLY of Westbrook. (3-24) Bill "An Act to Allow a Municipality to Sell Tax-acquired Property in Any Manner Authorized by the Municipality's Legislative Body" (H.P. 487) (L.D. 745)
Sponsored by Representative LEMELIN of Chelsea. (3-25) Bill "An Act to Authorize a Local Option Sales Tax on Short-term Lodging to Fund Municipalities and Affordable Housing" (H.P. 488) (L.D. 746)
Sponsored by Representative FRIEDMANN of Bar Harbor. Cosponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot and Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, RAY of Lincolnville, SAYRE of Kennebunk.
Committee on TAXATIONsuggested and ordered printed.
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(4-1) On motion of Representative MEYER of Eliot, the following Joint Resolution: (H.P. 471)
JOINT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2025 AS NATIONAL PARENT LEADERSHIP MONTH
WHEREAS,partnering with parents is a critical and effective way to help families identify and build upon their strengths and prevent child abuse and neglect; and
WHEREAS, authentic partnerships with parents are created when parents have the opportunity to partner with other parents and present a “parent perspective and lens” to inform policies and programs that support the growth of the protective factors that lead to strong families and communities; and
WHEREAS, the Maine Children’s Trust, a statewide abuse and neglect prevention organization, supports, encourages and acknowledges partnerships between parents and community stakeholders, leaders and policymakers as critical to developing strong communities; and
WHEREAS, partnerships with parents can help with building strengths-based communities that thrive based on protective factors; and
WHEREAS, partnerships with parents are successfully achieved when parents are partners in the planning, implementation, oversight and evaluation of policies, practices and programs that affect families and communities, receive support and training and have multiple opportunities to share their expertise; and
WHEREAS, parents each year are partnering with other parents to build stronger, safer communities where all children can thrive; and
WHEREAS, parents can have a powerful effect on communities by sharing their lived expertise, and they will continue to have a positive effect on the lives of families across the State; and
WHEREAS, many organizations across the State support and provide partnership opportunities for parents; and
WHEREAS, National Parent Leadership Month is an opportunity to recognize, honor and celebrate these parents and their contributions; 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 February 2025 as Parent Leadership Month in order to raise awareness of the vital role parents play in creating local communities that produce thriving children.
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(4-2) On motion of Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston, the following Joint Resolution: (H.P. 472) (Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington)
JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN MAINE
WHEREAS,Americans are living longer than ever before, and Maine is on the leading edge of this trend; and
WHEREAS, Mainers are predictably living healthy, productive lives into their 80s, 90s and 100s; and
WHEREAS, the majority of older Mainers wish to remain in their homes and communities as they age; and
WHEREAS, a quarter of older adults will need care and support as they age, and the majority of them will want to receive this care in their homes and communities; and
WHEREAS, eighty-three percent of the help provided to older adults in the United States comes from family members, friends or other unpaid caregivers, and nearly half of all caregivers who provide help to older adults do so for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia; and
WHEREAS, a family caregiver can be a spouse, partner, adult child, other relative, friend or neighbor who has a significant relationship with, and who provides a broad range of assistance to, an adult dealing with the challenges of age, illness, injury or chronic or disabling conditions; and
WHEREAS, currently, there are 166,000 family caregivers in Maine; and
WHEREAS, family caregivers in Maine provide an estimated 155,000,000 hours of unpaid care annually, which can be valued at nearly $2,920,000,000; and
WHEREAS, family caregivers spend, on average, more than $7,200 out of pocket annually in caring for their loved ones; and
WHEREAS, approximately 51,000 family caregivers in Maine are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, providing an estimated 87,000,000 hours of unpaid care annually at a value of $1,911,000,000; and
WHEREAS, dementia caregiving involves many hours over a long period of time, and the demands of dementia caregiving often result in physical and mental health problems among caregivers themselves; and
WHEREAS, the demand for family caregivers will increase as the United States population ages, and the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease will continue to rise significantly, nearly doubling by 2050; and
WHEREAS, the Maine State Legislature has passed various provisions into law in support of family caregivers, including the Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia state plan, the Respite for ME program and the paid family and medical leave benefits program; and
WHEREAS, family caregivers often work full-time or part-time while providing care for a loved one, while others are forced to leave the workforce, for a period of time or permanently, to provide care; and
WHEREAS, Maine is missing out on over $1,000,000,000 per year in additional economic activity as a result of family caregivers dropping out of the labor force due to care challenges; and
WHEREAS, the ratio of potential family caregivers to the growing number of those who need care has already begun a steep decline; and
WHEREAS, the number of personal support specialists, certified nursing assistants, personal care attendants and home health aides cannot meet the current or projected demand for care in Maine, and this shortage results in family caregivers leaving the workforce temporarily or permanently; and
WHEREAS, the lack of available supports and services for older people, such as Meals on Wheels, Adult Day Services and housing with services, challenges older people who wish to remain at home and their caregivers to find the help they need; and
WHEREAS, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report that the need to recognize and support family caregivers is the most significantly overlooked challenge facing the United States; and
WHEREAS, Maine must find ways to support family caregivers in their efforts to provide care to loved ones, allowing Maine citizens to safely and comfortably age in their own homes, helping to preserve communities and avoiding the expense of institutional care; 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, support the review of state policies and programs for their effectiveness in addressing the needs of family caregivers, professional caregivers and the loved ones they care for and recognize February 21, 2025 as National Caregivers Day; and be it further
RESOLVED: That a suitable copy of this resolution, duly authenticated by the Secretary of State, be transmitted to the Department of Health and Human Services.
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(4-3) On motion of Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston, the following House Order: (H.O. 14)
ORDERED, that Representative Jeffrey Sean Adams of Lebanon be excused Feb 4 for personal reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Amy Bradstreet Arata of New Gloucester be excused Jan 21 and Feb 4 for personal reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Allison Hepler of Woolwich be excused Feb 4 for legislative business reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Joseph F. Underwood of Presque Isle be excused Feb 4 for health reasons.
AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED, that Representative Mark Walker of Naples be excused Jan 8, 14, 21, 28 and Feb 4 for health reasons.
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SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR
In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items: Recognizing: (5-1) Ruthie Gusler, of Phillips, who was named American Miss National Teen at the American Miss National Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 71)
(5-2) Lilah Landers, of Harrison, who was named American Miss National Junior Teen at the American Miss National Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 72)
(5-3) Brooklyn Kelly, of Winslow, who was named American Miss National Ambassador at the American Miss National Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 73)
(5-4) Skyler Ehrlich, of Bar Harbor, a student at the Community School of Mount Desert Island, who placed 3rd in the National Garden Clubs 2023-2024 National Poetry Contest. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 75)
(5-5) Antonia Burns, of Tremont, an eighth grade student at Tremont Consolidated School, who won the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Atlantic Highly Migratory Species 2025 Tuna Art Calendar Contest. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 76)
(5-6) Peyton Hanson, of Tremont, a ninth grade student at Mount Desert Island High School, who won the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Atlantic Highly Migratory Species 2025 Tuna Art Calendar Contest. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 77)
(5-7) Mary Powling, of Princeton, who celebrated her 100th Birthday on December 26, 2024. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 78)
(5-8) Donald Oliver, of Chesterville, 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 79)
(5-9) Frank Donald, of Wilton, 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 80)
(5-10) Duayne Boyd, of Strong, 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 81)
(5-11) Jennifer Fortin, of Augusta, who was named National Elegant Miss at the American Miss National Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 89)
(5-12) Harold Goodwin, of Lee, a World War II veteran of the United States Marine Corps, who was named an Honorary Member of the American Legion by the Carl P. Burrill Post #77 in Lincoln. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 90)
(5-13) Owen Harper, of Lincoln, who won the Penobscot Valley Conference Wrestling Championship in the 150-pound Weight Class, his fourth straight conference championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 91)
(5-14) the Mattanawcook Junior High School "A" Boys Basketball Team, of Lincoln, which won the 2025 Penquis League Large School Championship. Members of the team include Joseph Smith, Dustin Hanscom, Jr., Bennett Libbey, Carter Cox, Landon Robinson, Zachary Brehaut, Michael Donahue, Cameron Thompson, Jakoby Crosby, Reed McIntyre, Judah Evans and Grayson De La Cruz; and coach Ryan Libby. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 92)
(5-15) the Biddeford High School Marching Band, which placed first at the New England Scholastic Band Association Fall Marching Band Finals. The band also brought home awards for Best Drum Major, Best Color Guard, Best Visual, Best Overall Effect and Best Percussion. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 95)
(5-16) James Melaugh, of Portland, on his retirement this March after 40 years of public service with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office. Mr. Melaugh served as Communications Officer, Sergeant of Communications, Records Clerk and, for more than ten years, Civil Deputy. In 1985, after serving as a dispatcher with the Freeport Police Department, he began working with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office. In September 1989, he became Sergeant of Communications, remaining in that position until April 2008, when he became a Civil Deputy. He also worked in Dispatch and as a lobby officer in the Cumberland County Jail. We extend our appreciation and best wishes;
(SLS 96)
(5-17) Ferry Beach Retreat and Conference Center, of Saco, which received the Employer of the Year Award from the Biddeford+Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 97)
(5-18) Donald Grinnell, of Washington, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 37) Presented by Representative SIMMONS of Waldoboro. Cosponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.
(5-19) the Frenchville Historical Society, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 38) Presented by Representative ALBERT of Madawaska. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-20) the Van Buren Revitalization Association, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 39) Presented by Representative ALBERT of Madawaska. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-21) Amy Black, of Wayne, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 40) Presented by Representative MORRIS of Turner. Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec.
(5-22) Stanley Davis, of Wayne, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 41) Presented by Representative MORRIS of Turner. Cosponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec.
(5-23) Carter McBreairty, of Allagash, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 42) Presented by Representative DAIGLE of Fort Kent. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-24) Betty Benson, of Portage Lake, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 43) Presented by Representative DAIGLE of Fort Kent. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-25) Karl and Lisa Wrigley, of Oakland, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 44) Presented by Representative NUTTING of Oakland. Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec.
(5-26) Nichole Clark, of Smithfield, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 45) Presented by Representative NUTTING of Oakland. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-27) Paul Frederick, of Starks, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 46) Presented by Representative NUTTING of Oakland. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-28) Mychael Bartholf, of Mercer, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 47) Presented by Representative NUTTING of Oakland. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-29) Alvina Day, of Brownfield, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 49) Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram. Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-30) Ada Lane, of Brownfield, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 50) Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram. Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-31) Janice Miller, of Porter, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 51) Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram. Cosponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland.
(5-32) Darryl and Donna Ward, of Hiram, recipients of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 52) Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram. Cosponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland.
(5-33) Meta Hart, of Canaan, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 53) Presented by Representative CRAY of Palmyra. Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.
(5-34) Glen Brown, of Palmyra, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 54) Presented by Representative CRAY of Palmyra. Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.
(5-35) James Wright, of Hartland, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 55) Presented by Representative CRAY of Palmyra. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-36) the St. Albans Giving Tree, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 56) Presented by Representative CRAY of Palmyra. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-37) the Skowhegan Area High School Speech Team, which won the 2025 Maine Forensic Association Maine State Speech Championship and Sportsmanship Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 57) Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan. Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.
(5-38) Patricia Van Horne, of Skowhegan, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 58) Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan. Cosponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset.
(5-39) Brooke Pirie, of Ellsworth, who won the United States of America Miss Maine Pageant. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 59) Presented by Representative WHITE of Ellsworth. Cosponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock.
(5-40) the Canton Volunteer Fire Department, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 62) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-41) Chris Walsh, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 63) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-42) Cooper Tardiff, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 64) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-43) David Lee Noyes, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 65) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-44) David Madison, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 66) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-45) Eric Sayer, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 67) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-46) Isaac Tardiff, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 68) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-47) Jason Vaughn, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 69) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-48) Jim Martin, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 70) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-49) Johnnie Morris, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 71) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-50) Paul Moisan, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 72) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-51) Riley Tardiff, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 73) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-52) Rob Walker, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 74) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-53) Spencer Vaughn, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 75) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-54) Tucker Tardiff, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 76) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-55) Aaron Christian, of Canton, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 77) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-56) Andrew J. Conant, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 78) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-57) Baxter Tardiff, of Hartford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 79) Presented by Representative SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico. Cosponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford.
(5-58) the Wells High School Wrestling Team, which won the 2025 Class B Dual Meet State Championship, the team's third state title in a row. Members of the team include Gabriel Allen, Robert Bates, Clyde Perkins, Gavin Silva, Robert Stevens, Jake Davis, Wyatt Devoe, Brady Godin, Jason Noble, Marius Paulin, Liam Perkins, Keegan Roberg, Riley Malloy, Brydon Marcotte, William Martinez, Robert Quint, Jason Berube, Alex Albright, Nick Allen, Dom Buxton, Chase Lunetta, Nate Malloy, Jonathan Martinez and Eli Potter; assistant coach Dan Bothwell; and head coach Scott Lewia. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 80) Presented by Representative FOLEY of Wells. Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York, Representative RUNTE of York.
(5-59) Maren Maxon, of Wells, a player on the Wells High School girls basketball team, who recently scored her 1,000th career point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 81) Presented by Representative FOLEY of Wells. Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York, Representative RUNTE of York.
(5-60) Molly Tefft, of Brunswick, who won the Maine State Girls K-12 Chess Tournament for the second year in a row. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 82) Presented by Representative ANKELES of Brunswick. Cosponsored by President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, Representative ARFORD of Brunswick, Representative GOLEK of Harpswell.
(5-61) Beaulieu's Garage, of Caribou, which has received the Business of the Year for Community Impact Award from the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 83) Presented by Representative GUERRETTE of Caribou. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-62) Gary Marquis, of Caribou, who has received the Citizen of the Year Award from the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 84) Presented by Representative GUERRETTE of Caribou. Cosponsored by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook.
(5-63) Catherine "Katie" Coppens, of Brunswick, a sixth grade teacher at Falmouth Middle School, who is a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the Nation's highest award for science, technology, engineering and mathematics teachers. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 85) Presented by Representative KUHN of Falmouth. Cosponsored by President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, Representative ANKELES of Brunswick, Representative ARFORD of Brunswick, Representative GOLEK of Harpswell.
(5-64) Jimmy Oliver, of Fryeburg, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 88) Presented by Representative WADSWORTH of Hiram. Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-65) Phillip Gene Dow, Sr., of Albion, who is celebrating his 80th birthday on February 28, 2025. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 89) Presented by Representative FLYNN of Albion. Cosponsored by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec.
(5-66) the Cornish Historical Society, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award. The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 90) Presented by Representative BLIER of Buxton. Cosponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland.
(5-67) Rachel Williams, of Sidney, for her 42 years of dedicated service with the Sidney Fire and Rescue Department. We extend our appreciation and best wishes;
(HLS 91) Presented by Representative COLLINS of Sidney. Cosponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec, Representative NUTTING of Oakland.
In Memory of: (5-68) Richard Joseph Grosh, of Brooklin. Mr. Grosh was a veteran of the United States Army who served in the Counterintelligence Corps in occupied Japan. He went on to work at Capehart-Farnsworth Corporation, studying infrared and electron-optic devices. He later became a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at his alma mater Purdue University in Indiana and served as Dean of the School of Engineering. In 1971, he was appointed president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. He also served as a trustee of Troy Savings Bank and Emma Willard School and on the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York State. He was elected a director of the National Commercial Bank & Trust Company, Sterling Drug Company and Ranco Inc. He served as chairman of the Awards Committee of the National Academy of Engineering and chairman of the academy's Committee on Minorities in Engineering. Moving to Ohio, he became chairman and chief executive officer of Ranco Inc. in Columbus. While there, he also served as a director for the Chamber of Commerce and the Capital Association for the Performing Arts and served on the Ohio Board of Regents and with the State Office of Education as Chairman of the Commission on Vocational and Technical Education. He retired from Ranco in 1987. During his retirement in Maine, he was asked by the Maine Maritime Academy board to draft a long-range plan for that institution. He was later appointed to serve as a trustee at the academy and served on the board for fifteen years. Mr. Grosh will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 74)
(5-69) Harry Layton Owen, of Bar Harbor. Mr. Owen, a veteran of the United States Navy, served aboard submarines in the Pacific Ocean during the Korean War. He became a teacher, teaching in the first consolidated school in Fairbanks, Alaska before moving to Maine in the early 1960s. For a time, he taught at Bar Harbor High School but later transferred to Sumner Memorial High School in Sullivan, where he taught wood shop among other courses until he retired in 1980. In 1963, he and his wife Mary "Cindy" Owen purchased what would become the Stone Barn Farm on the Crooked Road. Through their hard work and dedication, the property became a beloved landmark of Mount Desert Island. In 2019 the property was purchased by Maine Coast Heritage Trust, which conserves the property and protects public access. Mr. Owen will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 87)
(5-70) Francis Edward Hogan, of Saco. Over the course of his working life, Mr. Hogan worked for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Bancroft & Martin Steel Fabricators and the Portland Water District. Mr. Hogan will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 88)
(5-71) Jeffrey Sterling Thomas, of Wellington. In the late 1960s, while attending the University of Connecticut, Mr. Thomas and his friends protested the Vietnam War. His theatrical depiction of the atrocities of war was so compelling, his photograph landed on the front cover of TIME magazine. In the early 1970s, he was an original back-to-the-lander and a skilled carpenter and woodworker. For ten years, he taught English at Bonny Eagle High School. Mr. Thomas will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 93)
(5-72) Kenneth L. Harper, Sr., of Howland. As a young man, Mr. Harper ran Kelly's Pool Hall and worked at the Pine Tree Tannery, South Branch Lumber, Mead Paper Company in Massaschusetts and Sargents. Later, after working for Cianbro for a few years, he went to work as a heavy equipment operator in the forestry industry, in which he worked for more than 30 years. Because of his great skill, he was handpicked to do select tree cutting for the University of Maine. For more than 40 years, he was a master mason with the Piscatatquis Lodge #0044. Mr. Harper will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 94)
(5-73) Leroy A. Starbird, of Clinton. Mr. Starbird was a veteran of the United States Army, serving in World War II. During the war, he was stationed on the front line between France and Belgium at the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, he remained in Germany as part of the Army of Occupation. Returning home, he worked at several jobs before establishing a house painting business. He was a Past Master Mason, belonging to the Meridian Lodge #125, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and a High Priest of Ira Berry Royal Arch Chapter #57. He also held the Boston Post Cane as the oldest citizen of Clinton. Mr. Starbird will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 98)
(5-74) Gary Robert Corson, of New Sharon. Mr. Corson was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He completed two tours of duty in Vietnam and was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded on Halloween Day 1967. He was later employed in a variety of jobs but found his true passion when he became a Registered Maine Guide in 1980. He guided for several Maine sporting camps, including Libby Camps, Bradford Camps, and Red River Camps. In 1997, he started his own business, Gary C's Guiding, specializing in hunting white tail deer and trout fishing. A recognized leader and authority throughout the State on inland fisheries, he was dedicated to Native Maine brook trout and heritage waters and widely known for his efforts in restoring and enhancing brook trout fisheries. His work culminated in the 122nd Legislature's Legislative Document 1131, which became Public Law 2005, chapter 180, An Act To Recognize and Protect the Native Eastern Brook Trout as Maine's Heritage Fish. He served on the Maine Guides Advisory Board and was a lifelong member of Sportsman's Alliance of Maine, Maine Professional Guide Association and Kennebec Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited. In 2001, he was named Sportsman of the Year by the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine for his fall fishing initiative. In 2006, he received Special Recognition for his work on Wild and Native brook trout. In 2011, he received the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Wilmont Robinson Legendary Guide Award. Mr. Corson will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 99)
(5-75) Mary Helen Sabol Gagne, of Bowdoinham. Mrs. Gagne worked many years at W.T. Grants before she and her husband Lee started a business called Lee's Tire and Service. She was both a partner and bookkeeper active within the business for many years. She was a member of the Brunswick Golf Club for years and spent winter months in New Port Richey, Florida. Mrs. Gagne will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(SLS 100)
(5-76) Bruce Martin Curran, of Lowell. Mr. Curran will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(HLS 6) Presented by Representative MCINTYRE of Lowell. Cosponsored by Senator STEWART of Aroostook, Senator TIPPING of Penobscot, Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, Representative JAVNER of Chester.
(5-77) William S. Buffington, of South Paris. As a young man, Mr. Buffington began racing at Oxford Plains Speedway. Over more than 20 years of racing, he had 68 wins, including an enduro race, and 4 track championships in the figure 8 division and earned the nickname "Captain Crunch." He worked at C.B. Cummings until he started hauling house trailers in 1972 for Hardy's and then for Northeast Housing. In 1978, he started his first business, Willie's Repair, which is still in operation and supporting a third generation of his family. In retirement, he and his wife Crystal built and operated self-storage units, and he also started Willie's Enterprises, which included tractor work, snow plowing and hauling gravel. He joined the South Paris Fire Department in 1966. He volunteered for over 57 years, rising to the rank of Deputy Chief. He was instrumental in fund-raising for the department, coordinating "boot"drives, raffles and the food shack at the fair. Mr. Buffington will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(HLS 48) Presented by Representative LANCE of Paris. Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
(5-78) Barbara Hogate, of Cornville. Mrs. Hogate served as Cornville's clerk and tax collector for many years. She also helped found the Cornville Volunteer Fire Department in 1974. She was well known as the "book lady" due to her love for books and being the librarian for Cornville schools and the community for over 30 years. Mrs. Hogate will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(HLS 60) Presented by Representative DUCHARME of Madison. Cosponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
(5-79) Alvin Hall, of Whiting, a longtime businessman, community leader and musician. Mr. Hall was a veteran of the United States Army who served during the Korean War and attained the rank of staff sergeant. He worked as a tool and die maker for American Can Company before establishing H&S Construction, which he and his wife Pat owned and operated for 41 years. Always involved in music, he began entertaining audiences with his father at nine years of age as part of the Machias Town Band. Over the next eighty-plus years, he played in many bands, sharing the jazz and big band sound he grew up with. His band, the Orange River Band, was a favorite at celebrations and parades and earned special recognition as the Grand Marshals of the Lubec Fourth of July parade in 2022. In 2013, Mr. Hall and his brother Hovey were honored by the trustees of the Machias Bay Chamber of Commerce for their outstanding musical contributions to the Arts and Humanities in Washington County. In 2018, they were honored by Washington Academy for their outstanding and distinguished musical contributions to the community. Mr. Hall also served as president of the Washington Academy Alumni Association, served as a Shriner and served twice as Master of Warren Lodge #2 in East Machias. Mr. Hall will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(HLS 61) Presented by Representative TUELL of East Machias. Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington.
(5-80) Andrea Quaid, of Lewiston. Ms. Quaid worked in investment management services for banks in New York, Chicago, London and Paris before starting a career in government service. She worked in the office of Congressman Michael Michaud and at the time of her death as a Constituent Services Representative for Senator Angus King, handling casework around immigration and State Department issues. In the community, she performed for the Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre in To Kill a Mockingbird, You Can't Take It With You, The Importance of Being Earnest and The Odd Couple. She served on the boards of the Franco-American Collection at the Lewiston-Auburn Campus of the University of Southern Maine, the Androscoggin Land Trust, the Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre and the Dartmouth College Club of Maine. Ms. Quaid will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(HLS 87) Presented by Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston. Cosponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representative ABDI of Lewiston, Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston, Representative MCCABE of Lewiston.
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Report of the Chair-Pursuant to Joint Rule 308.2 (6-1) Representative SALISBURY from the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTon Bill "An Act to Require the Updating of Voter Registration Signatures" (H.P. 169) (L.D. 266)
Reports a recommendation for a CHANGE OF COMMITTEE.
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Refer to the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
(6-2) Representative PLUECKER for the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry on Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 27: Standards for Timber Harvesting and Timber Harvesting Related Activities Within Unorganized and Deorganized Areas of the State, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Forestry (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 492) (L.D. 750)
Reporting that it be REFERRED to the Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, section 8072.
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Refer to the Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
(6-3) Representative ROBERTS for the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife on Bill "An Act to Amend the Hunting Laws Related to the Training of Dogs and Open Training Seasons" (EMERGENCY) (H.P. 493) (L.D. 751)
Reporting that it be REFERRED to the Committee on INLAND FISHERIES AND WILDLIFEpursuant to Public Law 2023, chapter 172, section 2.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
First Day
In accordance with House Rule 519, the following items appeared on the Consent Calendar for the First Day: (7-1) (S.P. 67) (L.D. 131) Bill "An Act to Eliminate the Provision of the Maine Workers' Compensation Act of 1992 That Allows an Employer Member of a Group Self-insurer to Insure Its Employees Through a Fronting Arrangement" Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass (7-2) (H.P. 49) (L.D. 85) Bill "An Act to Revitalize the Maine Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Advisory Council" Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass (7-3) (H.P. 62) (L.D. 97) Bill "An Act to Facilitate the Improvement of Credit Scores of Residents of Department of Corrections Facilities" Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY reporting Ought to Pass
_________________________________
Emergency Measure
(10-1) 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 (H.P. 131) (L.D. 209)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed. This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.
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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. 323)
ORDERED, the House concurring, that when the Senate and House adjourn, they do so until Tuesday, March 4, 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
(2-1) The Following Communication: (S.P. 284)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 19, 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 19, 2025, 42 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 19, 2025, as follows:
Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Bill "An Act to Extend Funding for the Land for Maine's Future Program" (S.P. 277) (L.D. 593) (Sponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin) (Cosponsored by Representative HALL of Wilton and Senators: BRENNER of Cumberland, RENY of Lincoln, Representatives: MASON of Lisbon, BLIER of Buxton, CRAFTS of Newcastle, DUCHARME of Madison, BUNKER of Farmington, DILL of Old Town)
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Improve Coastal Climate Resiliency"(S.P. 239) (L.D. 560) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, TEPLER of Sagadahoc, GROHOSKI of Hancock, RAFFERTY of York, RENY of Lincoln, Representatives: FOLEY of Wells, COPELAND of Saco, ARCHER of Saco)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Support Informed Community Self-determination in Emergency Medical Services Planning" (S.P. 266) (L.D. 583) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo) (Cosponsored by Senators: TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland, BALDACCI of Penobscot, RENY of Lincoln, NANGLE of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Crime of Endangering the Welfare of a Child" (S.P. 276) (L.D. 592) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senator: RAFFERTY of York)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Address Student Hunger and Nutrition Through Expanded Access to Free Milk in Schools" (S.P. 258) (L.D. 577) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Require Cardiac Emergency Response Plans and Athletic Emergency Action Plans for Schools and School-sponsored Athletic Events" (S.P. 270) (L.D. 587) (Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative DODGE of Belfast and Representatives: MURPHY of Scarborough, SARGENT of York, MITCHELL of Cumberland)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Modify the Process for Standard-offer Contracts with the Public Utilities Commission" (S.P. 248) (L.D. 568) (Sponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York) (Cosponsored by Senator: STEWART of Aroostook, Representatives: WARREN of Scarborough, PAUL of Winterport)
Bill "An Act to Use Certain Regional Transmission Organization Payments for Beneficial Electrification to Reduce Electricity Rates" (S.P. 268) (L.D. 585) (Sponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York) (Cosponsored by Representative KESSLER of South Portland and Senators: CARNEY of Cumberland, BRENNER of Cumberland, Representatives: MALON of Biddeford, RUNTE of York, SAYRE of Kennebunk)
Resolve, to Provide Legislative Approval of Northern Maine Transmission Infrastructure (S.P. 280) (L.D. 596) (Sponsored by Senator LAWRENCE of York) (Cosponsored by Representative SACHS of Freeport)
Bill "An Act Concerning Energy, Utilities and Technology" (S.P. 281) (L.D. 597) (Sponsored by Senator LAWRENCE of York)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Ensure Subsidy Reimbursements for Certain Child Care Providers" (S.P. 240) (L.D. 561) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senators: MOORE of Washington, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: SHAGOURY of Hallowell, MCCABE of Lewiston)
Bill "An Act to Update Reimbursement Rates for Transportation of Deceased Persons by Funeral Homes When the Transport is at the Request of the Chief Medical Examiner" (S.P. 241) (L.D. 562) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senators: MOORE of Washington, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: LEMELIN of Chelsea, SHAGOURY of Hallowell)
Resolve, Directing the Department of Health and Human Services to Apply for a Waiver from the Federal Government for the Medicaid Limitation on Payment to a Facility with More than 16 Inpatient Beds for Psychiatric Treatment (S.P. 242) (L.D. 563) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford)
Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study MaineCare Estate Recovery (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 275) (L.D. 591) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative HASENFUS of Readfield and Senator: RAFFERTY of York)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Strengthen Consumer Protections by Prohibiting the Report of Medical Debt on Consumer Reports" (S.P. 237) (L.D. 558) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative MATHIESON of Kittery and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, HICKMAN of Kennebec, RENY of Lincoln, TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Protect Maine Consumers by Prohibiting Fees Charged for Receiving Paper Statements from Financial Institutions and Credit Card Issuers" (S.P. 261) (L.D. 580) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative GRIFFIN of Levant and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, MOORE of Washington, INGWERSEN of York, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, SHAGOURY of Hallowell)
Bill "An Act to Require Health Insurance Carriers to Provide Coverage for Blood Testing for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances" (S.P. 265) (L.D. 582) (Sponsored by Senator BRENNER of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative FLYNN of Albion and Senators: BLACK of Franklin, BAILEY of York, INGWERSEN of York, BALDACCI of Penobscot, Representatives: PARRY of Arundel, MATHIESON of Kittery, ARFORD of Brunswick, HYMES of Waldo)
Housing and Economic Development
Bill "An Act to Fund the Doctors for Maine's Future Scholarship Program" (S.P. 264) (L.D. 581) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative MURPHY of Scarborough and Senators: PIERCE of Cumberland, RAFFERTY of York, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representatives: CARLOW of Buxton, SARGENT of York, BRENNAN of Portland)
Judiciary
Bill "An Act to Provide a Court Authority to Issue Proximity Restrictions in Protection from Abuse Orders" (S.P. 269) (L.D. 586) (Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative KUHN of Falmouth, Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, PIERCE of Cumberland, Representatives: DODGE of Belfast, MURPHY of Scarborough, MITCHELL of Cumberland)
Bill "An Act to Update Privacy Protections for Maine Consumers" (S.P. 279) (L.D. 595) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland)
Labor
Bill "An Act to Improve Conditions for Maine Workers and Retirees" (S.P. 252) (L.D. 571) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Improve Maine's Workers' Compensation Laws" (S.P. 253) (L.D. 572) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Improve Penalty Collection for Labor Protection Violations" (S.P. 254) (L.D. 573) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Improve Labor Conditions for Workers in the State" (S.P. 255) (L.D. 574) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Ensure Equitable Access to the Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Program by Removing the Requirement That Leave Must Be Scheduled to Prevent Undue Hardship on the Employer" (S.P. 256) (L.D. 575) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative: ROEDER of Bangor)
Bill "An Act Regarding Reciprocal Licensure for Professional Engineers" (S.P. 257) (L.D. 576) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Submitted by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Improve Occupational Regulation" (S.P. 259) (L.D. 578) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Include Certain Mental Health Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement"(S.P. 260) (L.D. 579) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor and Senator: BRADSTREET of Kennebec, Representative: DRINKWATER of Milford)
Bill "An Act to Enact the Agricultural Employees Concerted Activity Protection Act" (S.P. 272) (L.D. 588) (Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor and Senator: TIPPING of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Make Agricultural Workers and Other Related Workers Employees Under the Wage and Hour Laws" (S.P. 273) (L.D. 589) (Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, HICKMAN of Kennebec, CURRY of Waldo, TIPPING of Penobscot, ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, GERE of Kennebunkport)
Bill "An Act to Require Minimum Pay for Reporting to Work" (S.P. 282) (L.D. 598) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative ARCHER of Saco and Representatives: GEIGER of Rockland, ROEDER of Bangor, BECK of South Portland, MACIAS of Topsham)
Bill "An Act to Codify the Federal Salary Threshold for Overtime Pay" (S.P. 283) (L.D. 599) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative ARCHER of Saco and Representatives: GEIGER of Rockland, ROEDER of Bangor, BECK of South Portland, SATO of Gorham, MACIAS of Topsham)
State and Local Government
Bill "An Act to Improve the Operations of State Government" (S.P. 243) (L.D. 564) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Designate the 2nd Week of May as Dark Sky Week" (S.P. 247) (L.D. 567) (Sponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative OSHER of Orono and Senator: MOORE of Washington, Representatives: MATLACK of St. George, COPELAND of Saco, SALISBURY of Westbrook, POMERLEAU of Standish)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Inclusion of Racial and Other Demographic Data from State Agencies in the Legislative Process" (S.P. 274) (L.D. 590) (Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland)
Resolve, Directing the State Auditor to Audit All State Agencies (S.P. 278) (L.D. 594) (Sponsored by Senator BRADSTREET of Kennebec) (Cosponsored by Representative LIBBY of Auburn and Representatives: GREENWOOD of Wales, DRINKWATER of Milford, UNDERWOOD of Presque Isle, FREDERICKS of Sanford, SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico, HENDERSON of Rumford, CHAPMAN of Auburn, CARUSO of Caratunk)
Taxation
Bill "An Act to Provide Property Tax Stabilization for Older Maine Residents" (S.P. 238) (L.D. 559) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Senators: CURRY of Waldo, RAFFERTY of York, RENY of Lincoln, NANGLE of Cumberland, Representatives: STOVER of Boothbay, DOUDERA of Camden)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Definition of 'Homestead' Under the Homestead Property Tax Exemption Laws" (S.P. 244) (L.D. 565) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senators: BAILEY of York, RAFFERTY of York, Representative: MATLACK of St. George)
Bill "An Act to Provide an Additional Maine Resident Homestead Property Tax Exemption Based on Income" (S.P. 250) (L.D. 570) (Sponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln)
Transportation
Bill "An Act to Modernize the Motor Vehicle Inspection Program and Amend the Law Governing Inspection Fees" (S.P. 246) (L.D. 566) (Sponsored by Senator FARRIN of Somerset) (Cosponsored by Representatives: CRAFTS of Newcastle, DUCHARME of Madison, ANKELES of Brunswick)
Resolve, to Rename the Shapleigh Bridge the Shapleigh Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 249) (L.D. 569) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative: LANIGAN of Sanford)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Make the Director of the Office of Cannabis Policy an Appointed Position Subject to Confirmation by the Legislature" (S.P. 267) (L.D. 584) (Sponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec) (Cosponsored by Representative SUPICA of Bangor and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland, DUSON of Cumberland, TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin, Representatives: RUDNICKI of Fairfield, FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, FREDERICKS of Sanford, BOYER of Poland)
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. 318)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
February 20, 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 20, 2025, 29 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 20, 2025, as follows:
Appropriations and Financial Affairs
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Provide Funding for Affordable and Low-income Housing Programs" (S.P. 307) (L.D. 690) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative GERE of Kennebunkport and Senators: BENNETT of Oxford, President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, CURRY of Waldo, Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, CLOUTIER of Lewiston)
Bill "An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue for Further Investment in Maine-based Businesses" (S.P. 308) (L.D. 691) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative SARGENT of York and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, CURRY of Waldo, Representative: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford)
Bill "An Act Providing Appropriations and Allocations for State Government Operations" (S.P. 316) (L.D. 699) (Sponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin)
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
Bill "An Act to Increase the Funding to the Live Fire Service Training Facilities Fund" (S.P. 294) (L.D. 679) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo) (Cosponsored by Representative BUNKER of Farmington and Senators: RENY of Lincoln, NANGLE of Cumberland)
Education and Cultural Affairs
Bill "An Act to Better Support the Educational Attainment of Low-income and Moderate-income Communities by Providing Additional Funding to Certain School Administrative Units" (S.P. 286) (L.D. 673) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Support Higher Education in Maine by Providing Funds to Maine's Community Colleges"(S.P. 295) (L.D. 680) (Sponsored by President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative CARLOW of Buxton and Senators: PIERCE of Cumberland, MOORE of Washington, RAFFERTY of York, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, SARGENT of York, SAYRE of Kennebunk)
Bill "An Act Regarding Public Higher Education Funding in the State" (S.P. 296) (L.D. 681) (Sponsored by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock) (Cosponsored by Representative FOSTER of Dexter and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, RAFFERTY of York, RENY of Lincoln, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representatives: STOVER of Boothbay, FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, MILLIKEN of Blue Hill, BISHOP of Bucksport)
Bill "An Act to Increase Support for Statewide Emergency Broadcast Messaging" (S.P. 309) (L.D. 692) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston and Senators: RAFFERTY of York, DUSON of Cumberland, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representative: BRENNAN of Portland)
Bill "An Act to Bolster the Maine Teacher Residency Program" (S.P. 313) (L.D. 696) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative MURPHY of Scarborough and Senators: RAFFERTY of York, LIBBY of Cumberland, Representative: CLOUTIER of Lewiston)
Bill "An Act to Promote Student Enrollment and Degree Completion in the University of Maine System by Awarding Waivers of Tuition and Fees to Eligible Students" (S.P. 317) (L.D. 700) (Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Senators: MOORE of Washington, DUSON of Cumberland, BICKFORD of Androscoggin, Representative: DILL of Old Town)
Energy, Utilities and Technology
Bill "An Act to Require Petitions for Interstate Transmission Lines to Include Provisions for Conservation Funding" (S.P. 311) (L.D. 694) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative SACHS of Freeport and Senator: BRENNER of Cumberland, Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, KUHN of Falmouth)
Health and Human Services
Bill "An Act to Support the Northern New England Poison Center" (S.P. 306) (L.D. 689) (Sponsored by Senator NANGLE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative STOVER of Boothbay and Senators: INGWERSEN of York, BALDACCI of Penobscot, CURRY of Waldo, BRENNER of Cumberland, RAFFERTY of York, Representatives: ZAGER of Portland, CRAFTS of Newcastle)
Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Bill "An Act to Protect Consumers by Increasing Transparency and Accountability in the Pharmaceutical Industry" (S.P. 288) (L.D. 675) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Direct the Maine Prescription Drug Affordability Board to Assess Strategies to Reduce Prescription Drug Costs and to Take Steps to Implement Reference-based Pricing" (S.P. 314) (L.D. 697) (Sponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln) (Cosponsored by Representative MATHIESON of Kittery and Senators: TEPLER of Sagadahoc, BAILEY of York, INGWERSEN of York, RAFFERTY of York, Representative: MASTRACCIO of Sanford)
Housing and Economic Development
Bill "An Act to Provide for the 2025 and 2026 Allocations of the State Ceiling on Private Activity Bonds" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 293) (L.D. 678) (Sponsored by Senator CURRY of Waldo) (Submitted by the Finance Authority of Maine pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Bill "An Act to Sustain Emergency Homeless Shelters in Maine" (S.P. 315) (L.D. 698) (Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative ROEDER of Bangor, Representative GATTINE of Westbrook and Senators: President DAUGHTRY of Cumberland, INGWERSEN of York, CURRY of Waldo, TIPPING of Penobscot, ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representatives: Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, MEYER of Eliot, GERE of Kennebunkport)
Judiciary
Bill "An Act to Update the Statutory Definition of 'Machine Gun' and Prohibit Possession of a Rapid-fire Device" (S.P. 292) (L.D. 677) (Sponsored by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative LEE of Auburn and Senators: RAFFERTY of York, DUSON of Cumberland, ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, LAWRENCE of York, Representatives: GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach, DOUDERA of Camden, SACHS of Freeport, BECK of South Portland)
Bill "An Act to Amend Certain Laws Regarding Abortions" (S.P. 297) (L.D. 682) (Sponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot) (Cosponsored by Representative SMITH of Palermo and Senators: GUERIN of Penobscot, HARRINGTON of York, BERNARD of Aroostook, Representatives: GRIFFIN of Levant, CARLOW of Buxton, QUINT of Hodgdon, PAUL of Winterport, HAGGAN of Hampden)
Bill "An Act to Authorize Department of the Secretary of State Law Enforcement Officers to Initiate a Libel Proceeding Regarding Catalytic Converters" (S.P. 305) (L.D. 688) (Sponsored by Senator NANGLE of Cumberland) (Submitted by the Secretary of State pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Marine Resources
Bill "An Act to Assert State Ownership over Ocean Waters up to 12 Nautical Miles and Submerged Lands and Marine Resources up to 24 Nautical Miles off the State's Coast and to Direct the Attorney General to Study That Ownership" (S.P. 304) (L.D. 687) (Sponsored by Senator MARTIN of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor and Senators: BEEBE-CENTER of Knox, CYRWAY of Kennebec, MOORE of Washington, Representative: SOBOLESKI of Phillips)
State and Local Government
Bill "An Act to Create a History Education and Learning Mobile Unit Within the Maine State Archives" (S.P. 287) (L.D. 674) (Sponsored by Senator BALDACCI of Penobscot)
Bill "An Act to Support the Department of the Secretary of State, Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions" (S.P. 310) (L.D. 693) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford and Senators: HICKMAN of Kennebec, BAILEY of York, Representative: KUHN of Falmouth)
Bill "An Act Regarding the Laws of the State of Maine" (S.P. 312) (L.D. 695) (Sponsored by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland)
Transportation
Resolve, to Rename the Salmon Falls Bridge Between Buxton and Hollis the Salmon Falls Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 285) (L.D. 672) (Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York) (Cosponsored by Representative BLIER of Buxton and Senator: INGWERSEN of York, Representative: CARLOW of Buxton)
Bill "An Act to Fund the Recommendations of the Mountain Division Rail Use Advisory Council" (S.P. 289) (L.D. 676) (Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford) (Cosponsored by Senators: BRENNER of Cumberland, NANGLE of Cumberland, Representatives: WADSWORTH of Hiram, POMERLEAU of Standish, COOPER of Windham, TERRY of Gorham)
Resolve, to Rename the Mill Pond Bridge the Sebago Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 302) (L.D. 685) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative WALKER of Naples)
Resolve, to Rename the Kezar Falls Bridge Between Porter and Parsonsfield the Kezar Falls Veterans Memorial Bridge (S.P. 303) (L.D. 686) (Sponsored by Senator LIBBY of Cumberland) (Cosponsored by Representative WOODSOME of Waterboro and Representative: WADSWORTH of Hiram)
Veterans and Legal Affairs
Bill "An Act to Clarify the Law Governing the Minimum Indirect Financial Interest Disclosure Requirement for Liquor Licenses" (S.P. 299) (L.D. 683) (Sponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)
Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Liquor and Lottery Operations" (S.P. 300) (L.D. 684) (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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State of Maine http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 3
(1-1) Resolve, to Update Flood Mapping in the Sandy River Watershed to Federal Emergency Management Agency Standards (S.P. 291) (L.D. 758)
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 Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue for the Maintenance, Preservation and Promotion of State Historic Sites" (S.P. 321) (L.D. 762)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on APPROPRIATIONS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS and ordered printed.
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(1-3) Bill "An Act to Include Possession of Compounds, Mixtures or Substances Containing a Detectable Amount of Certain Scheduled Drugs to Prove the Offense of Unlawful Trafficking of Scheduled Drugs" (S.P. 329) (L.D. 771)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY and ordered printed.
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(1-4) Resolve, to Study and Oversee Water in the State of Maine (S.P. 290) (L.D. 757)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES and ordered printed.
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(1-5) Bill "An Act to Ban the Sale, Use and Possession of Single-use Electronic Cigarettes and to Review Extended Producer Responsibility Options for All Batteries" (S.P. 262) (L.D. 754)
Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES suggested and ordered printed.
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES and ordered printed.
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(1-6) Bill "An Act to Prevent Opioid Overdose Deaths by Allowing Municipalities to Approve the Establishment of Overdose Prevention Centers" (S.P. 263) (L.D. 755) (1-7) Bill "An Act to Increase Patient Safety in Long-term Care Facilities" (S.P. 298) (L.D. 759) (1-8) Bill "An Act to Improve Long-term Care by Providing Funding for Nursing Facilities" (S.P. 322) (L.D. 763) (1-9) Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Licensing of Certain Types of Establishments and Professions by the Department of Health and Human Services" (S.P. 325) (L.D. 767) (1-10) Bill "An Act to Update the Laws Governing the Licensing of Intermediate Care Facilities for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities" (S.P. 326) (L.D. 768) (1-11) Bill "An Act Regarding Access to Behavioral Health Supports for Adults with Certain Disabilities" (S.P. 327) (L.D. 769) (1-12) Bill "An Act to Establish the Office of the Inspector General of Child Protection" (S.P. 328) (L.D. 770) (1-13) Bill "An Act to Assist Nursing Facilities in the Management of Facility Beds" (S.P. 330) (L.D. 772)
Come from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESand ordered printed.
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(1-14) Bill "An Act Establishing the Maine Common Interest Ownership Act" (S.P. 301) (L.D. 760)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTand ordered printed.
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(1-15) Bill "An Act to Strengthen Maine's Child Protection Laws by Limiting Contact with Violent Offenders" (S.P. 245) (L.D. 752) (1-16) Bill "An Act to Support an Aroostook Adult Treatment and Recovery Court" (S.P. 251) (L.D. 753)
Come from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on JUDICIARY and ordered printed.
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(1-17) Bill "An Act Creating and Sustaining Jobs Through the Development of Cooperatives and Employee-owned Businesses by Providing Tax Deductions for Certain Qualified Business Activities" (S.P. 271) (L.D. 756)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on TAXATION and ordered printed.
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(1-18) Bill "An Act to Provide for the Issuance of Enhanced Driver's Licenses and Enhanced Nondriver Identification Cards in Maine" (S.P. 331) (L.D. 773)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on TRANSPORTATION and ordered printed.
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State of Maine http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 4
(4-1) On motion of Representative MOONEN of Portland, the following House Resolution: (H.R. 1)
HOUSE RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE CENSURE OF REPRESENTATIVE LAUREL D. LIBBY OF AUBURN BY THE MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WHEREAS, on or about February 17, 2025, Representative Laurel D. Libby of Auburn posted on her Facebook page photos of a high school athlete, a minor, who won a girls’ track championship this year; and
WHEREAS, in that same post, Representative Libby identified the student athlete by name and shared pictures showing the minor in an athletic uniform with the school name clearly legible and blurred the faces of other student athletes to protect their privacy, while intentionally and deliberately leaving the named student’s face exposed; and
WHEREAS, accompanying the pictures, Representative Libby posted a statement criticizing the participation of transgender students in high school sports; and
WHEREAS, Representative Libby’s post has received national attention that she has amplified by appearing on national television and radio broadcasts to discuss; and
WHEREAS, a recent study from the Williams Institute at UCLA found that transgender people are over four times more likely to be victims of violence; and
WHEREAS, numerous replies to Representative Libby’s post suggested that harm should come to the young athlete; and
WHEREAS, Representative Libby’s post named the minor and used photos of the minor without that minor’s consent, in an effort to advance her political agenda; and
WHEREAS, when it was brought to her attention that her post may endanger the minor, Representative Libby refused to take down the post and instead continued to bring media attention to the minor; and
WHEREAS, it is a basic tenet of politics and good moral character that children should not be targeted by adult politicians, especially when that targeting could result in serious harm; and
WHEREAS, the school district, as a result of Representative Libby’s actions, has had to increase security at the school causing unnecessary stress and disruption to other students, parents, teachers and school support staff and the entire community; and
WHEREAS, the Legislative Code of Ethics expressly states that “a Legislator is entrusted with the security, safety, health, prosperity, respect and general well-being of those the Legislator serves and with whom the Legislator serves” and that “The Maine Legislator will be ever mindful of the ordinary citizen who might otherwise be unrepresented and will endeavor conscientiously to pursue the highest standards of legislative conduct inside and outside of the State House”;and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Article IV, Part Third, Section 4 of the Constitution of Maine, which states that each House may “punish its members for disorderly behavior,” and pursuant to Section 561, subsection 1 of Mason’s Manual of Legislative Procedure, which states that “A legislative body has the right to regulate the conduct of its members and may discipline a member as it deems appropriate, including reprimand, censure or expulsion,” the House is the judge of its own membership;and
WHEREAS, the House finds the conduct of Representative Laurel D. Libby to be reprehensible and in direct violation of our code of ethics; and
WHEREAS, the House finds that Representative Laurel D. Libby has conducted herself in a manner incompatible with her duty and responsibilities as a Member of this House and the public trust and high standards incumbent in that office; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the House of Representatives 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 declare that Representative Laurel D. Libby should be and hereby is censured by the House of Representatives for just cause; and be it further
RESOLVED: That Representative Laurel D. Libby must accept full responsibility for the incident and publicly apologize to the House and to the people of the State of Maine; and be it further
RESOLVED: That Representative Laurel D. Libby must comport herself in a manner that pursues the highest standards of legislative conduct; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this resolution must be entered on the Journal of the House of Representatives.
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