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One Hundred and Thirty-Second Legislature
Second Regular Session
Advance Journal and Calendar
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Matthea E. L.
Daughtry |
http://legislature.maine.gov/senate |
Darek M. Grant |
13th Legislative Day
In Senate Chamber, Thursday, March 12, 2026.
Senate called to Order by President Matthea E. Larsen Daughtry of Cumberland County.
Prayer by Reverend Gabriel Odin of Prince of Peace Parish in Lewiston.
National Anthem Performed by Bonny Eagle High School Band and Chorus of Standish.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Senator Scott W. Cyrway of Kennebec County.
Reading of the Journal of Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
_________________________________
PAPERS FROM THE HOUSE
Joint Orders
Expressions of Legislative Sentiment recognizing:
(1-1) Bonita Brooks, of Stockton Springs, 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 588
(1-2) Phylis Allen, of Winterport, 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 589
(1-3) Priscilla King, of Searsport, 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 590
(1-4) Jacob Rowley, of Winterport, who has attained the high rank and distinction of Eagle Scout. This is the highest award in Scouting and is given for excellence in skills development, leadership, personal growth and community service. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
HLS 591
(1-5) Will Pidden, of Yarmouth, on his retirement as principal of the Durham Community School after 22 years of service in the district. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
HLS 592
Come from the House, READ and PASSED.
_________________________________
Joint Resolution
Joint Resolution in Memoriam:
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(1-6) Lynne Gould Cianchette, of Pittsfield. Mrs. Cianchette's career was devoted to serving students, working at Maine Central Institute and St. Petersburg College in Florida. Service to others defined her. Deeply connected to her community, she gave of her time generously, including to the Sebasticook Valley Hospital Auxiliary, the ARTS Club and MCI Football Boosters. She was also known for providing home-baked goods, soups and meals to friends and families she cared about, often showing her love through food and thoughtful acts of kindness. Mrs. Cianchette will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
HLS 582
Comes from the House READ and ADOPTED.
_________________________________
COMMUNICATIONS
(2-1) The Following Communication:
S.C. 851
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
RE: University of Maine System Board of Trustees
Dear President Daughtry:
I am pleased to nominate the following individuals for appointment to the University of Maine System Board of Trustees:
· Christopher Gordon of Winchester, MA for appointment.
· Matthew Webber of Leeds for appointment as the undergraduate student member.
· Blake Shepherd of Portland for appointment as the graduate student member.
Pursuant to Title 5, MRSA §12004-C, this appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-2) The Following Communication:
S.C. 852
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nomination of Andrew Butcher for reappointment as President of the Maine Connectivity Authority
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate Andrew Butcher of Portland for reappointment as President of the Maine Connectivity Authority.
Pursuant to Title 35-A MRSA §9404, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-3) The Following Communication:
S.C. 853
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
RE: Maine Maritime Academy Board of Trustees
Dear President Daughtry:
I am pleased to nominate Patrick English of New Orleans, LA to the Maine Maritime Academy Board of Trustees.
Pursuant to Title 5 §12004-C and Public Law 1941, c. 37, §1, as amended by P&SL 1993, c 27, §1, these appointments are contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-4) The Following Communication:
S.C. 854
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nominations to the Maine Connectivity Authority
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate the following individuals for reappointment to the Maine Connectivity Authority:
· Carlos Javier Barrionuevo of Georgetown
· Hannah Carter of Orono
· James Carlson of Gorham
· Danielle Louder of Cornville
· Michael C. Reed of Palermo
Pursuant to Title 35-A MRSA §9404, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-5) The Following Communication:
S.C. 855
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nominations to the State Board of Education
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate the following individuals to the State Board of Education:
· Grace Dunton of Hartland for appointment as a student member.
· Edmond W. Morin of Westbrook for reappointment.
· Paulette Bonneau of Biddeford for reappointment.
· Xavier E. Botana of South Portland for appointment.
· Michael Thurston of Augusta for appointment.
Pursuant to Title 20-A, M.R.S.A. §401, these nominations are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-6) The Following Communication:
S.C. 856
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nominations to the School Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate the following individuals to the School Board of the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing:
· Lanet Anthony of Gardiner for appointment.
· Anna Perna of Holden for reappointment.
· Beth R. Campbell of Hermon for reappointment.
· Nicholas J. Weightman of Falmouth for appointment.
· Christy M. LoCicero Mackey of Shapleigh for appointment.
Pursuant to Title 20-A, M.R.S.A. §7407, these nominations are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-7) The Following Communication:
S.C. 857
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nominations to the Efficiency Maine Trust
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate the following individuals to the Efficiency Maine Trust:
· Joan W. Welsh of Rockport for reappointment.
· Kenneth Colburn of Bar Harbor for reappointment.
· Glenn Poole of Monson for reappointment.
· Christopher Rauscher of Cape Elizabeth for reappointment.
· Mark Isaacson of Cumberland for reappointment.
· Patricia Deese Stanton of Scarborough for appointment.
Pursuant to Title 35-A, M.R.S.A. §10103, these nominations are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-8) The Following Communication:
S.C. 868
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 11, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
RE: Lands for Maine’s Future Board
Dear President Daughtry:
I am pleased to nominate the following individuals to serve on the Land for Maine’s Future
Board:
· Malcolm L. Hunter Jr. of Amherst for reappointment
· Benjamin Pearson of Durham for appointment
Pursuant to Title 5 MRSA §6204, this appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-9) The Following Communication:
S.C. 869
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 11, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Re: Nominations to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority
Dear President Daughtry:
It is my pleasure to nominate the following individuals to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority:
· Monique Marie Cornett of Buxton
· Marko Melendy of Brunswick
Pursuant to Title 5, M.R.S.A. §13083-H, these nominations are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Housing and Economic Development
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-10) The Following Communication:
S.C. 870
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 11, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333
Re: Nomination to the Maine Charter School Commission
Dear President Daughtry:
I am pleased to nominate Jeremy Ray of Saco for appointment, and Leigh Weisenburger Albert for reappointment to the Maine Charter School Commission.
Pursuant to Title 20-A, MRSA §2405, this appointment is contingent on the Maine State Senate’s confirmation after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-11) The Following Communication:
S.C. 871
STATE OF MAINE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
AUGUSTA, MAINE
March 11, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
3 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
RE: Nomination to the State Civil Service Appeals Board
Dear President Daughtry:
I am pleased to nominate Jared Mills of Augusta for appointment to the State Civil Service Appeals Board.
Pursuant to 5 MRSA §7081, this nomination is contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on State and Local Government
Thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Sincerely,
S/Janet T. Mills
Governor
_________________________________
(2-12) The Following Communication:
S.C. 867
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Daughtry
President of the Senate
The Honorable Ryan Fecteau
Speaker of the House
132nd Legislature
State House
Augusta, ME 04333
Dear President Daughtry and Speaker Fecteau:
Please accept this letter as the report of the findings of the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services from its review and evaluation of the Department of Health and Human Services under the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3, Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Act, the committee notified the Department of Health and Human Services by letter dated May 1, 2025 of its intent to conduct a review. The Department of Health and Human Services submitted its report to the committee and provided a presentation regarding the report to the committee on January 22, 2026.
The committee has concluded its review of the report and finds that the Department of Health and Human Services is operating within its statutory authority. The committee commends the Department for its hard work and appreciates the time and effort the Department put into preparing a comprehensive GEA report.
Sincerely,
S/Sen. Henry Ingwersen S/Rep. Michele Meyer
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-13) The Following Communication:
S.C. 861
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate of Maine
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Dear Madam President:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A., Section 157, and with Joint Rule 505 of the Maine Legislature, the Joint Standing Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services has had under consideration the nomination of Matthew S. Colpitts of Winthrop, for reappointment to the Maine Retirement Savings Board.
After public hearing and discussion on this nomination, the Committee proceeded to vote on the motion to recommend to the Senate that this nomination be confirmed. The Committee Clerk called the roll with the following result:
YEAS Senators 1 Bailey, D. of York
Representatives 9 Mathieson, K. of Kittery, Boyer, M. of Cape Elizabeth, Cimino, M. of Bridgton, Cluchey, S. of Bowdoinham, Flynn, P. of Albion, Foley, R. of Wells, Mastraccio, A. of Sanford, Morris, J. of Turner, Olsen, R. of Raymond
ABSENT 3 Sen. Baldacci, J. of Penobscot, Sen. Haggan, D. of Penobscot, Rep. Arford, P. of Brunswick
Ten members of the Committee having voted in the affirmative and zero in the negative, it was the vote of the Committee that the nomination of Matthew S. Colpitts of Winthrop, for reappointment to the Maine Retirement Savings Board be confirmed.
Signed,
S/Donna Bailey S/Kristi M. Mathieson
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-14) The Following Communication:
S.C. 862
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate of Maine
132nd Maine State Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Dear Madam President:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A., Section 157, and with Joint Rule 505 of the Maine Legislature, the Joint Standing Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services has had under consideration the nomination of Rebecca M. Wyke, Ed.D. of Augusta, for reappointment to the Maine Retirement Savings Board.
After public hearing and discussion on this nomination, the Committee proceeded to vote on the motion to recommend to the Senate that this nomination be confirmed. The Committee Clerk called the roll with the following result:
YEAS Senators 1 Bailey, D. of York
Representatives 7 Mathieson, K. of Kittery, Boyer, M. of Cape Elizabeth, Cluchey, S. of Bowdoinham, Flynn, P. of Albion, Foley, R. of Wells, Mastraccio, A. of Sanford, Olsen, R. of Raymond
NAYS 0
ABSENT 5 Sen. Baldacci, J. of Penobscot, Sen. Haggan, D. of Penobscot, Rep. Arford, P. of Brunswick, Rep. Cimino, M. of Bridgton, Rep. Morris, J. of Turner
Eight members of the Committee having voted in the affirmative and zero in the negative, it was the vote of the Committee that the nomination of Rebecca M. Wyke, Ed.D. of Augusta, for reappointment to the Maine Retirement Savings Board be confirmed.
Signed,
S/Donna Bailey S/Kristi M. Mathieson
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-15) The Following Communication:
S.C. 863
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate of Maine
132nd Maine State Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Dear Madam President:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A., Section 157, and with Joint Rule 505 of the Maine Legislature, the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation has had under consideration the nomination of William Benson of Gorham, for appointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors.
After public hearing and discussion on this nomination, the Committee proceeded to vote on the motion to recommend to the Senate that this nomination be confirmed. The Committee Clerk called the roll with the following result:
YEAS Senators 1 Nangle, T. of Cumberland
Representatives 9 Crafts, L. of Newcastle, Albert, R. of Madawaska, Ankeles, D. of Brunswick, Bishop, S. of Bucksport, Eaton, H. of Deer Isle, Montell, K. of Gardiner, Parry, W. of Arundel, Ray, M. of Lincolnville, White, J. of Guilford
NAYS 0
ABSENT 3 Sen. Farrin, B. of Somerset, Sen. Pierce, T. of Cumberland, Rep. Mason, R. of Lisbon
Ten members of the Committee having voted in the affirmative and zero in the negative, it was the vote of the Committee that the nomination of William Benson of Gorham, for appointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors be confirmed.
Signed,
S/Tim Nangle S/Lydia Crafts
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-16) The Following Communication:
S.C. 864
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate of Maine
132nd Maine State Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Dear Madam President:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A., Section 157, and with Joint Rule 505 of the Maine Legislature, the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation has had under consideration the nomination of Jane Lincoln of Farmingdale, for reappointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors.
After public hearing and discussion on this nomination, the Committee proceeded to vote on the motion to recommend to the Senate that this nomination be confirmed. The Committee Clerk called the roll with the following result:
YEAS Senators 1 Nangle, T. of Cumberland
Representatives 9 Crafts, L. of Newcastle, Albert, R. of Madawaska, Ankeles, D. of Brunswick, Bishop, S. of Bucksport, Eaton, H. of Deer Isle, Montell, K. of Gardiner, Parry, W. of Arundel, Ray, M. of Lincolnville, White, J. of Guilford
NAYS 0
ABSENT 3 Sen. Farrin, B. of Somerset, Sen. Pierce, T. of Cumberland, Rep. Mason, R. of Lisbon
Ten members of the Committee having voted in the affirmative and zero in the negative, it was the vote of the Committee that the nomination of Jane Lincoln of Farmingdale, for reappointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors be confirmed.
Signed,
S/Tim Nangle S/Lydia Crafts
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-17) The Following Communication:
S.C. 865
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
March 10, 2026
The Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry
President of the Senate of Maine
132nd Maine State Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333-0003
Dear Madam President:
In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A., Section 157, and with Joint Rule 505 of the Maine Legislature, the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation has had under consideration the nomination of Thomas Zuke of Saco, for reappointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors.
After public hearing and discussion on this nomination, the Committee proceeded to vote on the motion to recommend to the Senate that this nomination be confirmed. The Committee Clerk called the roll with the following result:
YEAS Senators 1 Nangle, T. of Cumberland
Representatives 9 Crafts, L. of Newcastle, Albert, R. of Madawaska, Ankeles, D. of Brunswick, Bishop, S. of Bucksport, Eaton, H. of Deer Isle, Montell, K. of Gardiner, Parry, W. of Arundel, Ray, M. of Lincolnville, White, J. of Guilford
NAYS 0
ABSENT 3 Sen. Farrin, B. of Somerset, Sen. Pierce, T. of Cumberland, Rep. Mason, R. of Lisbon
Ten members of the Committee having voted in the affirmative and zero in the negative, it was the vote of the Committee that the nomination of Thomas Zuke of Saco, for reappointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority, Board of Directors be confirmed.
Signed,
S/Tim Nangle S/Lydia Crafts
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-18) The Following Communication:
S.C. 858
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
March 4, 2026
Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry, President of the Senate
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau, Speaker of the House
132nd Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear President Daughtry and Speaker Fecteau:
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, we are writing to notify you that we have approved the request by the bill sponsor Rep. Meyer of Eliot, to report the following bill Leave to Withdraw:
L.D. 766 An Act to Protect the Children of Maine
Sincerely,
S/Sen. Henry Ingwersen S/Rep. Michele Meyer
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-19) The Following Communication:
S.C. 860
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON MARINE RESOURCES
March 5, 2026
Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry, President of the Senate
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau, Speaker of the House
132nd Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear President Daughtry and Speaker Fecteau:
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, we are writing to notify you that we have approved the request by the bill sponsor Sen. Tepler of Sagadahoc, to report the following bill Leave to Withdraw:
L.D. 475 An Act to Protect Maine’s Marine Resources
Sincerely,
S/Sen. Denise A. Tepler S/Rep. Allison Hepler
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-20) The Following Communication:
S.C. 859
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
March 6, 2026
Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry, President of the Senate
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau, Speaker of the House
132nd Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear President Daughtry and Speaker Fecteau:
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, we are writing to notify you that the Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources has voted unanimously to report the following bill(s) out "Ought Not to Pass":
L.D. 2174 An Act to Replace the Maine Waterway Development and Conservation Act with the Maine Renewable Energy and Associated Transmission Development and Conservation Act (EMERGENCY)
This is notification of the Committee’s action.
Sincerely,
S/Sen. Denise A. Tepler S/Rep. Victoria W. Doudera
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
(2-21) The Following Communication:
S.C. 866
STATE OF MAINE
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SECOND LEGISLATURE
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
March 6, 2026
Honorable Matthea Elisabeth Larsen Daughtry, President of the Senate
Honorable Ryan D. Fecteau, Speaker of the House
132nd Legislature
State House
Augusta, Maine 04333
Dear President Daughtry and Speaker Fecteau:
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310, we are writing to notify you that the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services has voted unanimously to report the following bill(s) out "Ought Not to Pass":
L.D. 1959 An Act to Prohibit the Department of Health and Human Services from Reducing General Assistance Reimbursement Maximums for Payment of Costs of Providing Emergency Shelter
L.D. 2065 An Act to Provide One-time Funds to Support the Construction of a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility for At-risk Youth
This is notification of the Committee’s action.
Sincerely,
S/Sen. Henry Ingwersen S/Rep. Michele Meyer
Senate Chair House Chair
_________________________________
ORDERS
Joint Orders
(4-1) On motion by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland, the following Joint Order:
S.P. 914
ORDERED, the House concurring, that when the Senate and House adjourn, they do so until Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 10:00 in the morning, or until the call of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, respectively.
_________________________________
Expressions of Legislative Sentiment recognizing:
(4-2) the Appalachian Mountain Club, of Greenville, on the occasion of the organization's 150th Anniversary. Founded in 1876 in Boston, Massachusetts, the Appalachian Mountain Club is the Nation's longest-serving conservation and recreation organization, dedicated to fostering the protection, enjoyment and understanding of the outdoors. For 150 years, the organization and its members have led efforts to protect forests, waterways, wildlife habitats and public lands while advancing access to the outdoors for all. Through its Maine Woods Initiative, the organization has protected more than 130,000 acres of forestland in the 100 Mile wilderness area of Piscataquis County, and its advocacy has strengthened conservation policy at the federal, state and local levels. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1739
Sponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: WHITE of Guilford.
(4-3) Ronan Michael Kelly, of Alfred, a cadet with the Civil Air Patrol, who received the prestigious Brigadier General Billy Mitchell Award from the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. This award recognizes the recipient's sustained excellence in all four areas of cadet life: leadership, aerospace, fitness and character. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1741
Sponsored by Senator HARRINGTON of York.
Cosponsored by Representative: EDER of Waterboro.
(4-4) Summit Woodcock, of Livermore, a Civil Air Patrol Cadet Captain, who earned the Amelia Earhart Award. The Amelia Earhart Award marks completion of Phase III of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, recognizing sustained excellence in all four areas of cadet life: leadership, aerospace, fitness and character. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1742
Sponsored by Senator TIMBERLAKE of Androscoggin.
Cosponsored by Representatives: LYMAN of Livermore Falls, SCHMERSAL-BURGESS of Mexico.
(4-5) Jane Tiffany, of Strong, who is celebrating her 100th birthday on April 21, 2026. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1743
Sponsored by Senator BLACK of Franklin.
Cosponsored by Representative: HALL of Wilton.
(4-6) the Gardiner Area High School Boys Basketball Team, which won the Class B State Championship, the team's first state title. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1749
Sponsored by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec.
Cosponsored by Representative: MONTELL of Gardiner.
(4-7) the Orono Middle School Chess Team, which won the Penobscot Valley Middle League Sportsmanship Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1750
Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representatives: FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, OSHER of Orono.
(4-8) the Orono Middle School Girls Basketball Team, which won the Penobscot Valley Middle League Sportsmanship Award. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1751
Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representatives: FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, OSHER of Orono.
(4-9) the Penobscot Valley High School Girls Basketball Team, of Howland, which won the 2026 Class D North Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1752
Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: GIFFORD of Lincoln.
(4-10) the Mattanawcook Academy Girls Basketball Team, of Lincoln, which won the 2026 Class C North Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1753
Sponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: SOBOLESKI of Phillips.
(4-11) Jonathan Andrews, of Eastport, a member of the Shead High School boys basketball team, who recently scored his 1,000th career point. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1754
Sponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington.
Cosponsored by Representative: MINGO of Calais.
(4-12) the Bucksport High School Girls Track and Field Team, which won the Class C State Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1755
Sponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: BISHOP of Bucksport.
(4-13) the Bucksport High School Softball Team, which won the Class C State Championship. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1756
Sponsored by Senator HAGGAN of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: BISHOP of Bucksport.
(4-14) Karen Durant, of Milo, for her 25 years of service at the Milo Water District. We extend our appreciation and best wishes;
SLS 1757
Sponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot.
Cosponsored by Representative: PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft.
(4-15) Perry Van Rensselaer Skinner Martin, of Bridgton, who is celebrating her 100th birthday on March 12, 2026. We extend our congratulations and best wishes;
SLS 1758
Sponsored by Senator BENNETT of Oxford.
Cosponsored by Representative: CIMINO of Bridgton.
_________________________________
Joint Resolutions
(4-16) On motion by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland, the following Joint Resolution:
S.P. 913
JOINT RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
AND INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
WHEREAS, the 100th Congress of the United States passed a Joint Resolution on March 12, 1987 to designate the month of March as Women's History Month; and
WHEREAS, Maine women of every race, class and ethnic background have made historic contributions to the growth and strength of our State in countless recorded and unrecorded ways; and
WHEREAS, Maine women of every race, class and ethnic background have served and continue to serve as leaders in the establishment of charitable, philanthropic, commercial and cultural institutions in our State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Maine women have played and continue to play critical economic, cultural and social roles in every sphere of the life of our State, whether in the workforce and as the majority of the State's volunteer workforce; and
WHEREAS, Maine women have protected and defended our collective rights, responsibilities and freedoms in myriad spheres, including serving our country courageously in the military; and
WHEREAS, Maine women have been leaders, not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and increased opportunity, but also in expanding the rights of all who experience oppression as leaders in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, the civil rights movement and the peace and justice movement, among others, all of which work to create a more fair and just society for all; and
WHEREAS, despite these contributions, the role of Maine women in history has been consistently overlooked and undervalued in the body of American history; and
WHEREAS, Congress sent the Equal Rights Amendment to the states for ratification more than 50 years ago, and it is long past time that the principle of women's equality be enshrined in the federal and state constitutions; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That We, the Members of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Legislature now assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf of the people we represent, take this opportunity to designate March 2026 as Women's History Month, a time to celebrate and honor the contributions of all Maine women and girls, and to recognize March 8, 2026 as International Women's Day.
_________________________________
Joint Resolutions in Memoriam:
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-17) Andrew "Andy" Brenner, of Portland. Mr. Brenner had a more than 40-year career on Wall Street, specializing in fixed-income securities, and most recently served as the Vice Chairman of National Alliance Securities. He was a frequent on-air contributor on the Fox Business network, CNBC, Bloomberg TV and the NYSE. He served on the University of Pennsylvania Basketball Board for over two decades and sat on the Boards of the Maine Jewish Museum and the Children's Cancer Fund of New York Medical College. Most recently, he was a member of the UNE College of Business Executive Advisory Board. For many years, he was a congregant and supporter of the Hebrew Congregation of Somers, New York and later the Etz Chaim Synagogue in Portland. Mr. Brenner will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1738
Sponsored by Senator DUSON of Cumberland.
Cosponsored by Senator: TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland, Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, CROCKETT of Portland, LOOKNER of Portland, MOONEN of Portland, PUGH of Portland, SKOLD of Portland, YUSUF of Portland, ZAGER of Portland.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-18) Eva Barnfather, of Arundel. Mrs. Barnfather worked as a flight attendent during World War II and later as a service representative for AT&T. She went on to teach junior high school social studies and served as a vice principal. She also worked as the Director of the Work Opportunity Center, helping developmentally disabled adults secure employment. In 1999, she retired to Kennebunkport, where she was involved with a number of community organizations, founded Community Harvest and launched several programs, including the Harvest Cafe monthly community meal, Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve community dinners and a summertime lunch program for children. She received the 2015 Model of Positive Living Award and the 2018 Joel Stevens Community Spirit Award, and she was named a Paul Harris Fellow. Mrs. Barnfather will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1740
Sponsored by Senator INGWERSEN of York.
Cosponsored by Representative: PARRY of Arundel.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-19) Doris Paulette Denison, of Saco. Over her career, Mrs. Denison operated cafeterias for AVX in Biddeford and the Canteen in Portland, and she served as the culinary director of York Manor until she retired. She contributed to the American Red Cross and ASPCA. Mrs. Denison will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1744
Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: ARCHER of Saco, COPELAND of Saco, GATTINE of Westbrook.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-20) Nancy Ann Mercier, of Saco. Mrs. Mercier was employed by Nike and later worked in medical records and as a certified nursing assistant. She was also employed by Stroudwater Lodge in Westbrook and the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough. She was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Saco. Mrs. Mercier will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1745
Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: ARCHER of Saco, COPELAND of Saco, GATTINE of Westbrook.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-21) Nils Peter Mickelson, of Buxton. Mr. Mickelson was a veteran of the United States Navy. He served 8 years as a Naval Flight Officer, first on P-2H Neptune aircraft and later on P-3A Orion aircraft, retiring with the rank of lieutenant. He worked at GTE in Standish from 1973 to 1995 as an engineering manager. He received the GTE Leslie H. Warner Technical Achievement Award for his design of a telephone company distribution frame. In retirement, he helped others file patents for many years and eventually founded his own business, NEXTEP, Inc., which sold his invention, "HearFones," a tool for singers and orators. He was an active participant with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the Maine Engineering Promotional Council. He was very involved with Engineers Week in Maine, focusing on developing the next generation of engineers. He also worked with educators to incorporate engineering into school curricula. He sang with the choir at First Parish Congregational Church in Gorham for 40 years and with the Gorham Community Chorus. Mr. Mickelson will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1746
Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: BLIER of Buxton, CARLOW of Buxton.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-22) Maureen Duval Humiston, of South Portland. Ms. Humiston was a member of St. Bartholomew's Parish and later St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in Scarborough. She participated in the Cape Elizabeth Garden Club and provided many years of service to the Pond Cove PTA. Ms. Humiston will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1747
Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York.
Cosponsored by Senator: CARNEY of Cumberland, Representatives: BECK of South Portland, DHALAC of South Portland, KESSLER of South Portland.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-23) Cecile C. Hatch Laverriere, of Scarborough. Mrs. Laverriere was a member of Good Shepherd Parish and, formerly, of St. Mary's Church in Biddeford. She was an active member of the Married Ladies Sodality at St. Mary's Church. While raising her family, she supported Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Little League and served for many years as a Den Mother with Cub Scout Pack 305 in Biddeford. She also helped form the Biddeford Senior League Baseball program in 1971. After raising her children, she began working part time in Biddeford's Kennedy School hot lunch program. She also worked in local retail stores and in the shoe manufacturing industry, retiring from the Sebago-Moc Company in Westbrook in 1991. In retirement, she volunteered for many years in the cafeteria at Notre Dame School in Saco. Mrs. Laverriere will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1748
Sponsored by Senator BAILEY of York.
Cosponsored by Senators: BRENNER of Cumberland, CARNEY of Cumberland, Representatives: GATTINE of Westbrook, MURPHY of Scarborough, WARREN of Scarborough.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-24) Stephen "Steve" Schlosser, of Whitefield. Mr. Schlosser will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1759
Sponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.
Cosponsored by Representative: FARRIN of Jefferson.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-25) Robert Edward Brown, of Wells. Mr. Brown owned and operated Brown's Gulf in Wells for over 55 years alongside his son, Chris, and other family members. More than just a business, the station became a gathering place known by many as the local "Social Club." He was a member of the Masons and a founder of the Trailblazers. Mr. Brown will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1760
Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: FOLEY of Wells, RUNTE of York.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-26) Kevin Graham, of Wells. Dr. Graham earned advanced degrees from Alfred University and Lehigh University, including a doctorate in clinical psychology. He went on to have a long career as a school psychologist. He worked in public schools and private practice for over 40 years in East Hampton, New York, and Maine, where he retired. He frequently worked pro bono to provide support and guidance to adolescents and young adults who had no means to hire a counselor. Dr. Graham will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1761
Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: FOLEY of Wells, RUNTE of York.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-27) Dorothea "Dot" Lane Butters, of Kennebunk. Having earned a secretarial degree at Westbrook Junior College, Mrs. Butters began to work at the Lincoln Pulp and Paper Mill. She worked there until she took a break to start her family. When her youngest child began school, she became a school secretary and served in that role until her retirement. Mrs. Butters will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1762
Sponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York.
Cosponsored by Representatives: GERE of Kennebunkport, SAYRE of Kennebunk.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-28) Richard Wright Taylor, of Portland. Dr. Taylor graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine in 1959 and completed four years of internship and radiology residency at Maine Medical Center. He spent two years as a captain in the United States Air Force, serving as a radiologist at Elmendorf Air Force Base Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska, after which he moved to Lewiston, where he practiced general radiology and nuclear medicine at St. Mary's General Hospital until his retirement. He was a member of the Maine Radiological Society, the Maine Medical Association, the American Medical Association, the American College of Radiology, the Radiological Society of North America and the Society of Nuclear Medicine. Dr. Taylor will be long remembered and sadly missed by his family, friends and community;
SLS 1764
Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland.
Cosponsored by Senator: DUSON of Cumberland, Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, CROCKETT of Portland, LOOKNER of Portland, MOONEN of Portland, PUGH of Portland, SKOLD of Portland, YUSUF of Portland, ZAGER of Portland.
WHEREAS, the Legislature has learned with deep regret of the death of:
(4-29) Bonnie Jean Paris, of Portland. Ms. Paris was a valued employee at Idexx Labs, through Goodwill's supported employment program, for nearly 25 years. She also volunteered at the HART cat shelter. Ms. Paris will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family, friends and community;
SLS 1765
Sponsored by Senator TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland.
Cosponsored by Senator: DUSON of Cumberland, Representatives: BRENNAN of Portland, CROCKETT of Portland, LOOKNER of Portland, MOONEN of Portland, PUGH of Portland, SKOLD of Portland, YUSUF of Portland, ZAGER of Portland.
_________________________________
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
House
Ought to Pass
(5-1) The Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES on Bill "An Act to Establish the Suicide Mortality Review Panel" (EMERGENCY)
H.P. 1423 L.D. 2108
Reported that the same Ought to Pass.
Comes from the House with the Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED.
_________________________________
Ought to Pass As Amended
(5-2) The Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES on Bill "An Act to Establish the Health Information Technology Fund to Support a State-designated Statewide Health Information Exchange"
H.P. 1443 L.D. 2154
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-834).
Comes from the House with the Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-834).
_________________________________
(5-3) The Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES on Bill "An Act to Update the Requirements for Social Worker Licensure"
H.P. 1387 L.D. 2074
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-833).
Comes from the House with the Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-833).
_________________________________
(5-4) The Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES on Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Licensure of American Sign Language Interpreters"
H.P. 1402 L.D. 2087
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-832).
Comes from the House with the Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-832).
_________________________________
Divided Report
(5-5) The Majority of the Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGY on Bill "An Act to Transfer the Responsibilities of the Governor's Energy Office to the Department of Energy Resources"
H.P. 1442 L.D. 2153
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-835).
Signed:
Senators:
LAWRENCE of York
GROHOSKI of Hancock
HARRINGTON of York
Representatives:
SACHS of Freeport
GEIGER of Rockland
KESSLER of South Portland
RUNTE of York
WARREN of Scarborough
WEBB of Durham
The Minority of the same Committee on the same subject reported that the same Ought Not To Pass.
Signed:
Representatives:
FOSTER of Dexter
MCINTYRE of Lowell
PAUL of Winterport
WADSWORTH of Hiram
Comes from the House with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-835) Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-835).
_________________________________
Divided Report
(5-6) The Majority of the Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT on Bill "An Act to Create a Residential Rental Unit Registry"
H.P. 1207 L.D. 1806
Reported that the same Ought Not to Pass.
Signed:
Senators:
CURRY of Waldo
BAILEY of York
BENNETT of Oxford
Representatives:
COLLAMORE of Pittsfield
EDER of Waterboro
JULIA of Waterville
MINGO of Calais
The Minority of the same Committee on the same subject reported that the same Ought To Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-836).
Signed:
Representatives:
GERE of Kennebunkport
GOLEK of Harpswell
LOOKNER of Portland
MALON of Biddeford
YUSUF of Portland
Comes from the House with the Majority OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report READ and ACCEPTED.
_________________________________
Divided Report
(5-7) The Majority of the Committee on JUDICIARY on Bill "An Act to Protect the First Amendment Rights of Individuals in the State"
H.P. 335 L.D. 517
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-837).
Signed:
Senators:
CARNEY of Cumberland
TALBOT ROSS of Cumberland
Representatives:
KUHN of Falmouth
BABIN of Fort Fairfield
LEE of Auburn
O'HALLORAN of Brewer
PUGH of Portland
SATO of Gorham
SINCLAIR of Bath
The Minority of the same Committee on the same subject reported that the same Ought Not To Pass.
Signed:
Senator:
HAGGAN of Penobscot
Representatives:
CARUSO of Caratunk
HENDERSON of Rumford
POIRIER of Skowhegan
Comes from the House with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-837) Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-837).
_________________________________
Divided Report
(5-8) The Majority of the Committee on LABOR on Bill "An Act to Require Transportation Network Companies to Provide Fair Wages to Drivers"
H.P. 563 L.D. 877
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-831).
Signed:
Senators:
TIPPING of Penobscot
RAFFERTY of York
Representatives:
ROEDER of Bangor
ARCHER of Saco
BECK of South Portland
GEIGER of Rockland
MACIAS of Topsham
SKOLD of Portland
The Minority of the same Committee on the same subject reported that the same Ought Not To Pass.
Signed:
Senator:
BRADSTREET of Kennebec
Representatives:
COLLINS of Sidney
DRINKWATER of Milford
SOBOLESKI of Phillips
Comes from the House with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-831) Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-831).
_________________________________
Divided Report
(5-9) The Majority of the Committee on LABOR on Bill "An Act to Modify Service Retirement Provisions to Include Additional Emergency Communications Positions in the 1998 Special Plan"
H.P. 1400 L.D. 2085
Reported that the same Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-830).
Signed:
Senators:
TIPPING of Penobscot
BRADSTREET of Kennebec
RAFFERTY of York
Representatives:
ROEDER of Bangor
ARCHER of Saco
BECK of South Portland
COLLINS of Sidney
DRINKWATER of Milford
GEIGER of Rockland
MACIAS of Topsham
SKOLD of Portland
SOBOLESKI of Phillips
The Minority of the same Committee on the same subject reported that the same Ought Not To Pass.
Signed:
Representative:
LIBBY of Auburn
Comes from the House with the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-830) Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-830).
_________________________________
Senate
Ought to Pass
(5-10) Senator CURRY for the Committee on HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT on Bill "An Act Facilitating the Reconstruction or Replacement of Storm-damaged Commercial Fisheries Facilities and Infrastructure" (EMERGENCY)
S.P. 861 L.D. 2143
Reported that the same Ought to Pass.
_________________________________
SECOND READERS
The Committee on Bills in the Second Reading reported the following:
House
(6-1) Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Municipal Reporting on Residential Buildings"
H.P. 1394 L.D. 2079
_________________________________
House As Amended
(6-2) Bill "An Act to Facilitate the Development of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities by Exempting Certain Facilities from the Requirement to Obtain a Certificate of Need"
H.P. 1261 L.D. 1890
(C "A" H-827)
(6-3) Bill "An Act to Update Certain Statutes Governing School Nutrition"
H.P. 1347 L.D. 2017
(C "A" H-829)
(6-4) Bill "An Act Regarding Scheduling of Agricultural Fairs and Pulling Events" (EMERGENCY)
H.P. 1411 L.D. 2096
(C "A" H-823)
(6-5) Bill "An Act to Clarify and Strengthen the Government Shutdown Loan Guarantee Program" (EMERGENCY)
H.P. 1417 L.D. 2102
(C "A" H-826)
(6-6) Bill "An Act to Clarify Contractual Rights of Personal Sports Mobile Dealers"
H.P. 1419 L.D. 2104
(C "A" H-825)
_________________________________
Senate As Amended
(6-7) Bill "An Act to Clarify the Laws Governing Facilities for Children and Adults Under the Health and Human Services Laws"
S.P. 815 L.D. 2001
(C "A" S-536)
(6-8) Bill "An Act Regarding the Prohibition of Online Sweepstakes Games"
S.P. 825 L.D. 2007
(C "A" S-529)
(6-9) Bill "An Act to Provide Funding to the Maine School of Science and Mathematics and Clarify Sending School Administrative Unit Obligations"
S.P. 827 L.D. 2008
(C "A" S-537)
(6-10) Bill "An Act to Enhance the Safety of Public Transit Bus Operators Through the Installation of Vehicle Security Barriers"
S.P. 849 L.D. 2062
(C "A" S-532)
(6-11) Bill "An Act to Reorganize the Emergency Medical Services' Board to Implement the Recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission to Study Emergency Medical Services in the State"
S.P. 817 L.D. 2128
(C "A" S-530)
(6-12) Bill "An Act to Support Victims of Trafficking in Maine in Response to Federal Funding Cuts" (EMERGENCY)
S.P. 835 L.D. 2136
(C "A" S-534)
(6-13) Resolve, to Establish the Working Group to Prioritize Wellness and Mental Health Resources for Heritage Industries
S.P. 862 L.D. 2144
(C "A" S-531)
(6-14) Bill "An Act to Improve the Public Employees Disability Retirement Program by Modifying Provisions Controlling the Reduction of Benefits and Clarifying Terminology"
S.P. 879 L.D. 2169
(C "A" S-527)
(6-15) Resolve, Directing the Department of Transportation to Erect Signs on Warren's Bridge Between the Town of Hiram and the Town of Cornish
S.P. 889 L.D. 2184
(C "A" S-535)
_________________________________
ENACTORS
The Committee on Engrossed Bills reported as truly and strictly engrossed the following:
Emergency Measure
(7-1) An Act Regarding the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Exemption for Leased Automobiles for Certain Veterans
H.P. 205 L.D. 305
(C "A" H-813)
_________________________________
Emergency Measure
(7-2) An Act to Address Vacancies on the Knox County Budget Committee
H.P. 1447 L.D. 2158
(C "A" H-810)
_________________________________
Emergency Resolve
(7-3) Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 1: Fee Schedule, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Maine Land Use Planning Commission
H.P. 1369 L.D. 2039
_________________________________
Emergency Resolve
(7-4) Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 6: Delegation of Nursing Activities and Tasks to Unlicensed Assistive Personnel by Registered Professional Nurses, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, State Board of Nursing
H.P. 1455 L.D. 2166
_________________________________
Acts
(7-5) An Act Regarding Home Health Care Services Ordered by a Physician Licensed Outside of Maine
H.P. 1041 L.D. 1583
(C "A" H-811)
(7-6) An Act to Clarify the Bureau of Labor Standards' Investigatory and Enforcement Procedures
H.P. 1045 L.D. 1587
(C "A" H-808)
(7-7) An Act to Preserve and Strengthen the Fund for a Healthy Maine
H.P. 1099 L.D. 1658
(C "A" H-809)
(7-8) An Act to Increase Child Care Affordability
S.P. 763 L.D. 1955
(C "B" S-515)
(7-9) An Act to Authorize an Educational Requirement for Seaweed Permit Holders
S.P. 803 L.D. 1991
(C "A" S-516)
(7-10) An Act to Make Changes to Certain Licensing Laws Governing For-hire Charter Boat Operators, Lobster and Crab Fishing and Elver Dealers
H.P. 1354 L.D. 2024
(C "A" H-812)
(7-11) An Act to Establish the Child Care Employment Award
S.P. 855 L.D. 2066
(C "A" S-513)
(7-12) An Act to Establish Guidance for Awarding General Spousal Support
S.P. 860 L.D. 2142
(C "A" S-517)
_________________________________
Resolves
(7-13) Resolve, to Rename a Bridge in Roxbury the Roxbury-Frye Veterans Memorial Bridge
S.P. 885 L.D. 2181
(7-14) Resolve, to Rename the Little River Bridge in the Town of Cornish the Cornish Veterans Memorial Bridge
S.P. 887 L.D. 2183
_________________________________
ORDERS OF THE DAY
Unfinished Business
The following matters in the consideration of which the Senate 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 Senate Rule 516.
1.
Tabled and Later Assigned
An Act to Include in the Ranked-choice Election Method for General and Special Elections the Offices of Governor, State Senator and State Representative and to Make Other Related Changes
S.P.
660 L.D. 1666
(C "B" S-499)
Tabled - February 10, 2026 by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland
Pending - ENACTMENT in concurrence
(In House, PASSED TO BE ENACTED.)
_________________________________
2.
Tabled and Later Assigned
JOINT ORDER - TO HONOR THE LIFE, FAITH, LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY OF CHARLES "CHARLIE" JAMES KIRK
H.P. 1485
Tabled - February 24, 2026 by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland
Pending - ADOPTION in concurrence
(In House, READ and ADOPTED.)
_________________________________
3.
Tabled and Later Assigned
JOINT RESOLUTION - RECOGNIZING THE MUSLIM CELEBRATION OF THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN
H.P. 1502
Tabled - March 10, 2026 by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland
Pending - ADOPTION in concurrence
(In House, READ and ADOPTED.)
_________________________________
4.
Tabled and Later Assigned
SENATE REPORTS - from the Committee on JUDICIARY on Bill "An Act to Incorporate Probate Judges into the Maine Judicial Branch"
S.P.
684 L.D. 1766
Majority - Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-533) (8 members)
Minority - Ought Not to Pass (5 members)
Tabled - March 10, 2026 by Senator CARNEY of Cumberland
Pending - motion by same Senator to ACCEPT the Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report
_________________________________
5.
Tabled and Later Assigned
Emergency
An Act to Provide for the 2026 and 2027 Allocations of the State Ceiling on Private Activity Bonds
Tabled - March 10, 2026 by Senator PIERCE of Cumberland
Pending - ENACTMENT in concurrence (Roll Call Ordered)
(In House, PASSED TO BE ENACTED.)
_________________________________
SPECIAL APPROPRIATIONS TABLE