CLERK'S OFFICE
207-287-1400
|
The House CalendarThe Advance Journal and Calendar of the House of Representatives Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.
Prayer by Honorable Mark Lawrence, Eliot.
National Anthem by Melanie Saucier, Montreal, Quebec.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Honorable Michel A. Lajoie, Lewiston.
Medical Provider of the Day, Lori Towne, FNP, Dover Foxcroft.
Reading of the Journal of yesterday. _________________________________
(1-1) Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Future of Recreational Access in Maine (S.P. 582) (L.D. 1441)
Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY suggested and ordered printed.
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on INLAND FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(2-1) The Following Communication: (H.C. 141)
CLERK'S OFFICE 2 STATE HOUSE STATION AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0002
April 23, 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 following Joint Standing Committees have voted unanimously to report the following bills out "Ought Not to Pass:"
Criminal Justice and Public Safety L.D. 1295 An Act to Waive Basic Law Enforcement Training Requirements for Full-time Law Enforcement Officers Who Have Successfully Completed Equivalent Courses in Other Jurisdictions Environment and Natural Resources L.D. 75 An Act to Update Funding for the Board of Environmental Protection L.D. 212 An Act to Require the Valuation of Energy Produced by Hydropower Dams and Exploration of Alternative Ownership Options Before They Are Removed L.D. 430 An Act to Impose Moratoria on Hydropower Dam Removal and on Water Release from Nonhydropower Dams and to Make Other Changes to the Laws Regulating Such Dams (EMERGENCY) L.D. 920 Resolve, to Review Efficiencies in the Licensing of Solid Waste Disposal Facilities by the Department of Environmental Protection L.D. 1165 An Act to Create a Fund for Safe Disposal of Hazardous Fluids from Salvage Yards Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services L.D. 1300 An Act to Strengthen Maine's Implied Warranty Laws Veterans and Legal Affairs L.D. 951 An Act to Require Disclosure of Campaign Funding Sources L.D. 1350 An Act to Ban Corporate Contributions to Candidates L.D. 1527 An Act to Require Postage Prepaid Envelopes Be Provided for the Return of Absentee Ballots
Sincerely,
S/Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House
_________________________________
(2-2) The Following Communication: (S.C. 285)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
April 22, 2025
Honorable Ryan Fecteau Speaker of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0002
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A. §158 and Joint Rule 506 of the 132nd Maine Legislature, please be advised that the Senate today confirmed the following nominations:
Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry: · The Honorable Donald G. Marean of Hollis for reappointment, to the State Harness Racing Commission, · The Honorable Chandler Woodcock of Farmington for reappointment, to the State Harness Racing Commission.
Best Regards,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
_________________________________
(2-3) The Following Communication: (S.C. 286)
MAINE SENATE 132ND LEGISLATURE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
April 22, 2025
Honorable Robert B. Hunt Clerk of the House 2 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333
Dear Clerk Hunt:
Please be advised the Senate today insisted to its previous action whereby it referred Bill “An Act to Ensure Uniformity in the Regulation of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Pesticides” (H.P. 1015) (L.D. 1557) to the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in non-concurrence.
Best Regards,
S/Darek M. Grant Secretary of the Senate
_________________________________
PETITIONS, BILLS AND RESOLVES REQUIRING REFERENCE (3-1) Bill "An Act to Ensure Equitable Staffing Ratios Across the State for Career and Technical Education Programs in Areas with Smaller Student Populations" (H.P. 1183) (L.D. 1764)
Sponsored by Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford. Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York and Representatives: ALBERT of Madawaska, CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham, FARRIN of Jefferson, MCCABE of Lewiston, STROUT of Harrington, WEBB of Durham, WOODSOME of Waterboro. Committee on EDUCATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS suggested and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(3-2) Bill "An Act to Ensure Affordability and Stability in Housing for Mobile Home Park Residents" (H.P. 1184) (L.D. 1765)
Sponsored by Representative JULIA of Waterville. Cosponsored by Senator TEPLER of Sagadahoc and Representatives: ARFORD of Brunswick, DEBRITO of Waterville, EDER of Waterboro, MALON of Biddeford, MINGO of Calais, OSHER of Orono, SUPICA of Bangor. Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT suggested and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(3-3) Bill "An Act to Regulate Nonwater-dependent Floating Structures on Maine's Waters" (H.P. 1182) (L.D. 1763)
Sponsored by Representative HEPLER of Woolwich. Cosponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot and Representatives: DILL of Old Town, MASON of Lisbon, PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft.
Committee on INLAND FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE suggested and ordered printed.
_________________________________
SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR
In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items: Recognizing: (5-1) Katelyn McKay, of Gorham, who was named the Southern Maine Community College Student of the Year. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 446)
(5-2) Jack Merrill, of Islesford, on his stepping down from his seat on the Board of Directors for the Maine Lobstermen's Association after 40 years of service representing the lobstering community of Islesford. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 447)
(5-3) Carl Flynn, of Van Buren, on the occasion of his retiring after 20 years of service as the head ice hockey coach at Presque Isle High School. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 448)
(5-4) the Central Aroostook High School Girls Basketball Team, of Mars Hill, which won the Class D North Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 449)
(5-5) Isaac Staples, of Presque Isle, a Senior Captain of the Presque Isle High School Hockey Team, who broke the school record with his 100th goal, also scoring his 202nd point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 450)
(5-6) the Schenck High School Boys Basketball Team, of East Millinocket, which won the Class D North Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 451)
(5-7) Lilly Burtt, of Mars Hill, a sophomore at Central Aroostook High School, who was named the Girls Class D Basketball State Tournament Most Valuable Player by the Bangor Daily News. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 452)
(5-8) the Noble High School Wrestling Team, of North Berwick, which won the Class A State Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 453)
(5-9) Hannah Perro, of North Berwick, who was named the Varsity Maine Girls Wrestler of the Year. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 454)
(5-10) David Parent, of Springvale, Superintendent of the Sanford Water District, on his receiving the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maine Water Utilities Association. Mr. Parent has dedicated more than 40 years of service to Maine's water industry. He began his career with the Sanford Water District in the early 1980s and became superintendent in 2011. Mr. Parent has served as a board member and the president of the Maine Water Utilities Association, advocated for water and wastewater utilities as a member of the association's Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Committee, has been actively involved with the New England Water Works Association and the Southern Maine Regional Water Council and has made countless presentations to children to foster an understanding of the water cycle and the importance of clean drinking water. We thank him for his countless contributions and advocacy for safe and reliable water and offer him our best wishes;
(SLS 455)
(5-11) the Scarborough Garden Club on the celebration of its 50th Anniversary. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 456)
(5-12) Frances Stockman, of Bar Harbor, who won an Outstanding Soloist Award for singing the role of The Goblin King from the David Bowie movie "Labyrinth" at the Maine Music Educators Association's State Vocal Jazz and Show Choir Festival. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 457)
(5-13) the Mount Desert Island High School Show Choir, of Bar Harbor, which took top honors for its production of "Nova Terra" at the Maine Music Educators Association's State Vocal Jazz and Show Choir Festival. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 458)
(5-14) Nayeli Monahan, of Trenton, who won an Outstanding Soloist Award for singing the role of Sarah from the David Bowie movie "Labyrinth" at the Maine Music Educators Association's State Vocal Jazz and Show Choir Festival. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 459)
(5-15) Julia Ramos, Emma Astle, Ruby DeMuro and Delilah Damon Dong, of Bar Harbor, who won the Outstanding Choreography Award at the Maine Music Educators Association's State Vocal Jazz and Show Choir Festival. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 460)
(5-16) Emily West, of Orland, a senior at Bucksport High School, who is a recipient of a 2025 Principal's Award for outstanding academic achievement and citizenship, sponsored by the Maine Principals' Association. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 461)
(5-17) Sofia Kleshneva, of Bar Harbor, who won an Outstanding Soloist Award at the Maine Music Educators Associations' State Vocal Jazz and Show Choir Festival. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 462)
(5-18) Leo Harmon, of Lincoln, who won the 98-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 463)
(5-19) Daigen Botting, of Lincoln, who won the 104-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 464)
(5-20) Ethan Friend, of Lincoln, who won the 122-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 465)
(5-21) Cash Albert, of Lincoln, who won the 172-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 466)
(5-22) Michael Donahue, of Lincoln, who won the 205-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 467)
(5-23) Mason Loman, of Lincoln, who won the 245-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 468)
(5-24) Joan Ferrini-Mundy, of Orono, President of the University of Maine, who has received the 2025 Distinguished Public Service Award from the American Educational Research Association for her leading role in enacting and implementing research-based education policies and significantly advancing the visibility and support of education research. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 469)
(5-25) Blaine and Lorna Gordon, of Enfield, who celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 470)
(5-26) David Lambert, of Saco, a captain in the York County Sheriff's Office, on his receiving a Sheriff's Award and for his 41 years dedicated service to the citizens of York County. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 471)
(5-27) the Mattanawcook Junior High School Wrestling Team, of Lincoln, which won the 2025 Penquis League Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 472)
(5-28) Damien James, of Lincoln, who won the 150-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 473)
(5-29) Carson Tash, of Lincoln, who won the 110-pound Weight Class of the 2025 Penquis League Wrestling Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 474)
(5-30) Jessica Linzer Simpson, of Cape Elizabeth, who won the 2024 AARP Maine Steadfast Advocate Award for her countless volunteer hours and unending efforts to support the AARP Maine mission. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 477)
In Memory of: (5-31) Stephen Gary Hall, of Brooks. Mr. Hall was a lifelong resident of Brooks and an active member of the Masons and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He served for 15 years as a Brooks town selectman, following in the footsteps of his father guiding the town he loved; his sister continues the tradition to this day. His love for the town encompassed both its history and its people, past and present. He proudly served in the United States Army for 4 years, fought fires with the Bangor Fire Department for 9 years, taught middle schoolers at Mount View Junior High School for more than 20 years and always considered himself a farmer. He was a keeper of stories and had things to talk about with everyone he met. He knew history to a point that you could ask him, on any given day, what had happened in the past and he could tell you what happened on that particular day, centuries ago. Mr. Hall will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 445)
(5-32) Philip E. Toussaint, of West Newfield. Mr. Toussaint pursued multiple career paths. Notably, he worked in the manufacturing industry, drove a taxi and owned a successful cleaning company. Mr. Toussaint will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 475)
(5-33) Bernard Smith, of Lincoln. Mr. Smith was a veteran who served with the United States Army 98th Engineers in France. He went on to work as "The Telephone Man," diligently maintaining equipment and keeping up with the rapidly evolving technology to make sure his customers had vital communication service. He retired from GTE/Verizon after 36 years in the industry. He was a member of Forest Lodge in Springfield, the Horeb Lodge of Lincoln and the Anah Temple Shrine of Bangor. He served on the School Administrative District 30 School Board for several terms and was one of several co-owners who renovated and reinvented the Springfield Fair as a family friendly event. Mr. Smith will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
(SLS 476)
(5-34) Marlene J. Libby, of Appleton. Mrs. Libby's early employment included working in the offices of Rockland Leathers and the Rockland Wastewater Department. She embarked on a 35-year career at the Camden Town Office. In 1989, she was hired as the Wastewater/Harbor Clerk for the Town of Camden. She later was appointed to serve as the Town Treasurer/Accountant, Interim Finance Director and Deputy Finance Director, the position which she held until December 2024. The Town of Appleton Select Board dedicated the 2022 Annual Report to Mrs. Libby in honor of her commitment to the town, the town office and her fellow residents. She volunteered her time to the town and assisted with many different endeavors such as organizing and conducting staff training sessions, serving in the office and serving on the Select Board. Mrs. Libby will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
(HLS 204) Presented by Representative DOUDERA of Camden. Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox, Representative RAY of Lincolnville.
_________________________________
Divided Report (6-1) Majority Report of the Committee on EDUCATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-20) on Bill "An Act to Fund Climate Resiliency Projects Related to the Repair of Campus Infrastructure Used for Active Transportation and Outdoor Recreation" (S.P. 190) (L.D. 457) Signed: Senators: Representatives: Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.
Signed: Senator: Representatives: Comes from the Senate with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-20).
_________________________________ 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. 39) (L.D. 24) Resolve, Authorizing the Director of the Bureau of Parks and Lands to Convey Public Land Parcels in Lincoln Plantation and Sandy River Plantation Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-19) (7-2) (S.P. 196) (L.D. 462) Bill "An Act to Amend the Eligibility Criteria for Creditable Service in the Armed Forces of the United States Under the Maine Public Employees Retirement System" Committee on LABOR reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-21) (7-3) (H.P. 267) (L.D. 413) Bill "An Act Regarding Disclosure by Sellers of Residential Real Property of Notices of Shoreland Zoning Ordinance Violations" Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(H-67) (7-4) (H.P. 320) (L.D. 491) Resolve, Authorizing the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to Convey and Release the State's Interest in Certain Real Property Located in the Town of Richmond Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-66) (7-5) (H.P. 374) (L.D. 606) Resolve, to Study Barriers to Financial Assistance Programs for Farmers and Food Producers Committee on AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-65)
_________________________________
Constitutional Amendment
(10-1) RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Establish That All Maine Residents Have Equal Rights Under the Law (H.P. 163) (L.D. 260)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed. This being a Constitutional Amendment, a two-thirds vote of the House necessary.
_________________________________
Acts (10-2) An Act to Expand the Use of the Veterans' Homelessness Prevention Partnership Fund (S.P. 54) (L.D. 126) (10-3) An Act to Improve Women's Health and Economic Security by Funding Family Planning Services (S.P. 79) (L.D. 143) (10-4) An Act to Require the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands to Maintain the Weld to Byron Road in Township 6 North of Weld (S.P. 228) (L.D. 510) (10-5) An Act to Support the Northern New England Poison Center (S.P. 306) (L.D. 689) (10-6) An Act to Modernize the State Supplement to Supplemental Security Income by Removing Marriage Disincentives (S.P. 373) (L.D. 840)
Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.
_________________________________
ORDERS OF THE DAY HOUSE CALENDAR
The following matters, in the consideration of which the House was engaged at the time of adjournment, have preference in the Orders of the Day and continue with such preference until disposed of as provided by House Rule 502.
1. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Maryalice Crofton, of Augusta (SLS 267)
- In Senate, READ and PASSED. - CARRIED OVER to the next special or regular session of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 519 on March 21, 2025. TABLED - March 18, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative RIELLY of Westbrook. PENDING - PASSAGE.
2. HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (8) Ought to Pass - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on VETERANS AND LEGAL AFFAIRS on Bill "An Act to Allow Expenditure of Maine Clean Election Act Funding for the Care of Candidates' Dependents" (H.P. 525) (L.D. 818)
TABLED - March 25, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative SUPICA of Bangor. PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.
3. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Rachel Eastman Feeley, of Auburn (HLS 160)
TABLED - April 1, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative SMITH of Palermo. PENDING - PASSAGE.
4. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing 49 Franklin, of Rumford (HLS 178)
TABLED - April 10, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford. PENDING - PASSAGE.
5. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Glenn Martin, of Rumford (HLS 179)
TABLED - April 10, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford. PENDING - PASSAGE.
6. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Shannon Glover, of Mexico (HLS 180)
TABLED - April 10, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative HENDERSON of Rumford. PENDING - PASSAGE.
7. Bill "An Act to Address the Safety of Nurses and Improve Patient Care by Enacting the Maine Quality Care Act" (S.P. 509) (L.D. 1281)
- In Senate, REFERREDto the Committee on LABOR. TABLED - April 15, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative MOONEN of Portland. PENDING - REFERENCE IN CONCURRENCE. (Roll Call Ordered)
8. Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Restoration Resources, of Alna (HLS 190)
TABLED - April 17, 2025 (Till Later Today) by Representative STOVER of Boothbay. PENDING - PASSAGE.
_________________________________
Joint Convention Calendar
Franco-American Day
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Calling of the Convention to Order by President Matthea E. Larsen Daughtry of Cumberland County.
Bilingual invocation by Honorable Mark Lawrence, Eliot.
National Anthem by Melanie Saucier, Montreal, Quebec.
Bilingual Pledge of Allegiance led by Honorable Michel A. Lajoie, Lewiston.
Medical Provider of the Day, Lori Towne, FNP, Dover Foxcroft.
_________________________________
(4-1) On motion of Representative MALON of Biddeford, the following Joint Resolution: (H.P. 1181) (Cosponsored by Senator LAWRENCE of York)
JOINT RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE FRANCO-AMERICAN DAY
WHEREAS,the State of Maine is named after the Province of Maine in France, and the towns of Paris and Calais owe their names to the capital city of France and the French port city of Calais, respectively; and
WHEREAS, more than 1/3 of the population of Maine is of French and Canadian descent and Franco-Americans in Maine have contributed much to the beauty and quality of this State; and
WHEREAS, French is the primary language of thousands of Maine citizens and there has been a resurgence in the use of the French language and a heightened appreciation of the Franco-American heritage throughout the State; and
WHEREAS, clubs and organizations to promote French culture and language have sprung up throughout the State, including the Francophone Caucus at the Capitol; and
WHEREAS, fluent French-English bilingual people are a cultural and economic resource to the State; and
WHEREAS, cultural tourism can be greatly enhanced by the genuine Franco-American centers throughout the State, and the large Franco-American presence in Maine can further strengthen our relationships with Canada, France and the rest of the francophone world; and
WHEREAS, the first Franco-American Day was celebrated on Wednesday, March 6, 2002 at the State Capitol; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the First Special Session, on behalf of the people we represent, proclaim that Wednesday, April 23, 2025 is Franco-American Day, to be celebrated at the State Capitol; and be it further
RESOLVED: That Franco-American Day be celebrated to commemorate the rich history of the French people in the State of Maine and the United States of America.
_________________________________
In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following item: Recognizing: (5-1) Diane and Robert Cyr, of Biddeford, who have been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Mr. and Mrs. Cyr are the President and Secretary of the Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center, which is dedicated to preserving, educating, promoting and celebrating Biddeford's rich past and present historical culture, heritage and diversity. Mrs. Cyr grew up in Lyman, and Mr. Cyr in Biddeford. Together, they raised their four children in Biddeford, where she worked as a cardiac nurse, and he worked in the trucking industry. Both are avid genealogists and members of the York County Genealogical Society of Franco-Americans. Mrs. Cyr has been referred to by former Biddeford Mayor and State Representative Alan Casavant as the "heart and soul" of the Center. Mr. Cyr also volunteers his time with the Knights of Columbus and West Brook Skating Rink and can often be found behind the grill at community events. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 208) Presented by Representative MALON of Biddeford. Cosponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, Representative GERE of Kennebunkport.
(5-2) Ben and Stella Forcier, of Biddeford, who have been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Ben Forcier was born on March 6, 1937, in Biddeford, one of seven siblings. Stella Forcier was born in Biddeford in January 1938 to Ernest and Delia Desrochers, Canadian immigrants and first-generation American citizens. The seventh of eight children, she grew up in a French-speaking family, learning English upon starting school. Mr. Forcier served in the United States Marine Corps. He married Mrs. Forcier in 1956 at St. Andre's Church in Biddeford while living in Quantico, Virginia, where he trained future officers. After his military service, the couple returned to Biddeford. Mr. Forcier worked 31 years at what later became Saco Defense and General Dynamics, while Mrs. Forcier began as a cafeteria worker at St. Andre's Catholic School, eventually becoming the director of food services and earning state-level recognition for her work. They are pillars of the Franco-American community and dedicated to coaching youth sports, teaching CCD and assisting seniors at Atlantic Heights in Saco. Mrs. Forcier continues to volunteer at St. James School's cafeteria. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 209) Presented by Representative EDER of Waterboro. Cosponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York, Speaker FECTEAU of Biddeford, Representative GERE of Kennebunkport, Representative MALON of Biddeford.
(5-3) Jacynthe Blais Jacques, of Lewiston, who has been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Mrs. Jacques immigrated from Quebec and, with her husband Alain, raised her children to speak both French and English. As the cultural director of French programs at the Franco-American Center, she played a major role in maintaining the focus on Franco culture at the Center and forging bonds between the Franco community and the area's newest French speakers. She served as the student representative on the board of the Franco-American Collection when she was both a student at and an employee of the Lewiston-Auburn Campus of the University of Southern Maine. She later served as a community member on the board. Mrs. Jacques organized the showing of a Quebecois film for Maine high school students in conjunction with the Maine chapter of the American Association of Teachers of French. She also has been a guest at classes to speak about Franco-American music traditions. Currently, she is a member of Les Troubadours, a Franco women's singing group, serves on the board of the Alliance Francaise du Maine and volunteers with literacy volunteers and at the library. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 206) Presented by Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston. Cosponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representative ABDI of Lewiston, Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston, Representative MCCABE of Lewiston.
(5-4) David St. Laurent, of Rockport, who has been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Mr. St. Laurent is Camden's Public Works Director, Road Commissioner, Tree Warden, Dam Control Agent and Water Resource Manager. His grandparents emigrated from Quebec to Maine, and he grew up in Lewiston speaking English and French. He has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from the University Maine at Machias. Much of his career has been focused on protecting water resources. Mr. St. Laurent has over 25 years of environmental experience, including working for Beal's Island Shellfish Hatchery, the Department of Inland Fish and Wildlife, Poland Spring, Bath Iron Works, Fisher Engineering and the City of Rockland. During his 12 years of service to Rockland, Mr. St. Laurent oversaw the paving of 18 roads, the transition to single-stream recycling and the capping of the landfill. Currently in Camden, he manages the Public Works and Wastewater Departments as well as Midcoast Solid Waste, the area's regional transfer station and landfill. He is responsible for maintaining 38 miles of streets and roads, 10.5 miles of sidewalk and, for winter maintenance, another 20 miles of State Aid roads. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(HLS 205) Presented by Representative DOUDERA of Camden. Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox.
(5-5) Susan Pinette, of Orono, who has been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Dr. Pinette is a Professor of Modern Languages and the Director of the Franco-American Center at the University of Maine. In 1991, Dr. Pinette graduated from the University of Maine with degrees in French and International Affairs. After teaching in France as a Fulbright fellow, she earned her PhD in French Literature at the University of California at Irvine. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 478) Presented by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot. Cosponsored by Representative FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, Representative OSHER of Orono.
(5-6) Annie Proulx, of Portland, who has been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Ms. Proulx graduated from Deering High School and attended Colby College. She graduated cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Vermont with a bachelor's degree in History in 1969. In 1988, she made her literary debut with her first short story collection, Heart Songs and Other Stories. Her debut novel, Postcards, won the 13th Annual PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction in 1992, making her the first woman to receive the prestigious award. One year later, her second novel, The Shipping News, earned the Pulitzer Prize, the National Book Award and The Irish Times International Fiction Prize. In 1997, Proulx's short story, "Brokeback Mountain," centered around two cowboys who develop a secret, powerful, life-long bond, was published in The New Yorker, earning her a National Magazine Award and the first of two O. Henry Awards. In 2005, "Brokeback Mountain" was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film that Rolling Stone named one of the top 10 films of the decade. Ms. Proulx has received honorary doctorate degrees from Concordia University and the University of Maine. She was honored with the National Book Foundation's Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters in 2017 for her exceptional work and significant impact on American literature. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 480) Presented by Senator LAWRENCE of York. Cosponsored by Senator DUSON of Cumberland, Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland, Representative BRENNAN of Portland, Representative CROCKETT of Portland, Representative LOOKNER of Portland, Representative MOONEN of Portland, Representative PUGH of Portland, Representative SKOLD of Portland, Representative YUSUF of Portland, Representative ZAGER of Portland.
(5-7) Gordon Soucy, of Grand Isle, who has been inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Mr. Soucy has been a resident of Grand Isle for most of his life. In 1970, he purchased his parents' meat and grocery business and ran it successfully for many years. He also collected artifacts that he knew would someday find a home in a museum. In July 2007, Mr. Soucy's dream became the Greater Grand Isle Historical Society. From the beginning, the Society and museum have been Mr. Soucy's project. The Society and museum have grown from one room in the Grand Isle Community Center to a four-building complex on property purchased from the Diocese of Portland. In addition, the Society owns and maintains the former Department of Transportation Picnic/Rest Area between Grand Isle and Madawaska. If you want to know something about Grand Isle or about someone who lived in the area, you ask Gordon Soucy. He was and remains the impetus for the success and growth of the Greater Grand Isle Historical Society. Mr. Soucy also served his community as a selectman, was a member of the Grand Isle Fire Department and is a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
(SLS 481) Presented by Senator BERNARD of Aroostook. Cosponsored by Representative ALBERT of Madawaska, Representative DAIGLE of Fort Kent, Representative MALON of Biddeford.
(5-8) the late Andrea Quaid, of Lewiston, who has been posthumously inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Ms. Quaid graduated from Dartmouth College in the first class of women in 1976 with a Bachelor of Arts in French Languages and Literature. After college, she worked stateside and in London and Paris in investment management services before working in the office of Congressman Michael Michaud and as a Constituent Services Representative for Senator Angus King. Known for her wonderful sense of humor, Ms. Quaid loved reading and theater and performed for the Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre. She was fluent in French and a true Francophile, loving French culture and conversing with new and native French-speaking Mainers. 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 in the hearts and minds of her community and the State;
(HLS 207) Presented by Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston. Cosponsored by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin, Representative ABDI of Lewiston, Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston, Representative MCCABE of Lewiston.
(5-9) the late Louis L. Robert, of Lewiston, who has been posthumously inducted into the Franco-American Hall of Fame. Professor Robert left his position in Montreal to teach young men of the Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Lewiston. He was a pioneer in bilingual education in the Lewiston area, and many of his students became professionals, bankers and successful businessmen. Around the autumn of 1928, Professor Robert opened a private academy specializing in a business curriculum for grades 7 to 10, with instruction strictly in French. His private academy helped in the acculturation of the Franco-Americans of the area. Many adults had their naturalization papers completed by the Professor and were instructed on what was needed in order to become citizens. Professor Robert was elected Chairman of the Lewiston School Board in 1933. He also was re-elected to the Board of Water Commissioners in 1937. In the 1950s, Professor Robert was a major contributor to the French language newspaper for the Franco-American community, Le Messenger. The weekly, and sometimes daily, publication served as an information lifeline to the Canadian Province of Quebec. Professor Robert will be long remembered in the hearts and minds of his community and the State;
(SLS 479) Presented by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin. Cosponsored by Representative ABDI of Lewiston, Representative CLOUTIER of Lewiston, Representative LAJOIE of Lewiston, Representative MCCABE of Lewiston.
_________________________________
State of Maine http://legislature.maine.gov/HouseCalendar House Supplement No. 2
(1-1) Bill "An Act to Ensure Data Reporting for Temporary Nurse Agencies" (S.P. 687) (L.D. 1769)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESand ordered printed.
_________________________________
(1-2) Bill "An Act to Incorporate Probate Judges into the Maine Judicial Branch" (S.P. 684) (L.D. 1766)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on JUDICIARY and ordered printed.
_________________________________
(1-3) Bill "An Act to Amend the Waldo County Budget Adoption Process and Allow Residents Who Are Not Municipal Officers to Serve on the Waldo County Budget Committee" (S.P. 685) (L.D. 1767)
Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTand ordered printed.
_________________________________
(1-4) Bill "An Act to Protect Residents of Mobile Home Parks by Amending the Real Estate Transfer Tax" (S.P. 686) (L.D. 1768) (1-5) Bill "An Act to Provide Immediate and Long-term Property Tax Relief to Maine Households" (EMERGENCY) (S.P. 688) (L.D. 1770)
Come from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on TAXATION and ordered printed.
_________________________________
|
