House and Senate Democrats Announce Legislative Priorities for 123rd Legislature
February 1, 2007
AUGUSTA—During a news conference at the State House Thursday, Maine’s top democratic leaders in the House and Senate unveiled their legislative agenda for the 123rd Legislature. Calling their priorities, “An Action Plan for Social and Economic Prosperity,” legislative democrats said they hoped to use the agenda as a guide over the next two years to help build a better future for Maine.
The legislative plan consists of four main cornerstones: Quality of Life, Education and Opportunity, Innovation and Growth, and Good Government, which provide the building blocks to support the democrats’ priorities.
Addressing the Quality of Life cornerstone, Senate President Beth Edmonds, D-Cumberland County, said that recent studies such as the Brookings Report point out “Maine possesses a globally known brand built on images of livable communities, stunning scenery and great recreational opportunities.”
President Edmonds continued by saying, "Sustainable growth and conservation of open spaces are critical to maintaining the quality of place that is one of Maine’s greatest assets." She added, "We must act to preserve Maine’s natural attractions - miles of forest, coastal waters, wild free rivers, and quiet clean lakes."
House Speaker Glenn Cummings, D-Portland, said that Education and Opportunity is an important theme because safe, healthy families, and a vibrant economy rest heavily on our ability to ensure that all of Maine’s people have access to a high quality education.
Speaker Cummings added, "We must put college with in the reach of more Maine citizens by increasing the capacity of our schools and making college more affordable. This will help to build our economic strength and ensure that we provide all Maine children with the same opportunity for success."
House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree, D-North Haven, pointed out in her explanation of the Innovation and Growth cornerstone that the potential for strong, lasting economic prosperity is here, but that it is our job to lay the right foundation today. She said, “Maine’s economy is really at a crossroads right now, and we’re pointed in the right direction.” Pingree added, “We have a real opportunity to build sustainable economic growth and create good jobs for the future by making the right investments now.”
Senate Majority Leader Libby Mitchell described the last cornerstone of Good Government as an essential component of the plan. Senator Mitchell explained, “We need to make sure our governmental systems and our employees have the tools and skills they need to provide the services Maine people want and need in the most cost effective way.”
Senator Mitchell concluded, “The Democratic Agenda creates pathways for Maine people to succeed. Democratic leaders and our members are committed to working together this session to continue to lay the cornerstones for economic prosperity for all Maine people.”
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