WHEREAS, on April 28, we observe and honor Workers' Memorial Day, a somber occasion to remember the thousands of dedicated workers, beloved family members, and friends that die each year from job-related injuries, and the millions more that suffer occupational injuries and illnesses at work in the United States; and

WHEREAS, the State of Maine recognizes the invaluable contributions of workers across all industries, whose efforts sustain our economy and communities; and

WHEREAS, most workplace injuries and fatalities are preventable, and it is an immeasurable loss when a parent, family member, child, or friend goes to work and does not make it home safely at the end of their shift; and

WHEREAS, in 2025, 19 people died in Maine due to workplace injuries or illnesses that resulted from their work, and two more Mainers died while working out of state; and

WHEREAS, the State of Maine renews our commitment to preventing workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities through strong safety and health standards, education, and enforcement;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2026 as

Workers' Memorial Day

in Maine, and I encourage all organizations, community leaders, employers and employees, and residents to observe Workers' Memorial Day through participation in remembrance activities and a moment of silence; urge employers to review and strengthen workplace safety practices; support the empowerment of workers to speak up about unsafe conditions; and recommit to collaborative efforts to ensure that every worker returns home safely at the end of each day.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this twenty third day of April Two Thousand Twenty-Six