AUGUSTA – Yesterday, Rep. Michael Brennan, D-Portland, introduced a bill before the Legislature's Judiciary Committee that would help nonprofit organizations address the growing threat of hate crimes and acts of terrorism by increasing security measures.
LD 2107 would establish the Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which would provide qualifying nonprofits with funding to implement safety measures at places of worship, such as churches, synagogues and temples, that are at risk. The program would also be available to organizations whose members are in danger of being assaulted or harassed due to their race, gender or sexual orientation.
At the public hearing, Brennan said that, both nationally and in Maine, more people are afraid to attend religious or social events due to the risk of an attack.
While many organizations are vulnerable, most do not have the resources to pay for necessary protective measures, such as security personnel and infrastructure improvements.
“In recent years, our country has seen far too many violent attacks against community gatherings – hate crimes against groups of innocent people based on their faith traditions, who they love, where they were born or the color of their skin,” Brennan said. “This bill is about making sure nonprofits have the tools to keep people safe and secure from acts of terrorism and extremism.”
Nonprofit and community leaders also testified in favor of the proposal.
“Importantly, this bill affirms that safety and inclusion are not competing priorities. When nonprofits are supported in creating secure environments, they are better able to foster dialogue, education and community connection, core pillars of a healthy democracy,” said Tam Huynh, executive director of the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine. “Preventative investment in security also reduces the likelihood of more costly and traumatic outcomes later, benefiting both communities and the state as a whole.”
The Judiciary Committee will hold a work session on the bill on Friday, Feb. 6. At that time, committee members will have the opportunity to offer amendments before voting on a recommendation to the full Legislature.
Brennan is serving his fourth consecutive term in the Maine House of Representatives, having previously served four terms in the Maine House and three in the Maine Senate. He is a member of both the budget-writing Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee and the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Brennan) | 305-965-2744