AUGUSTA – The Legislature’s Housing and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously Thursday to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, that would establish a permanent Eviction Prevention Program (EPP).
Temporarily established by the Maine Legislature with one-time funding in 2024, the EPP is on track to prevent over 1,600 evictions since its creation. The program provides short-term rent relief that keeps people in their homes while helping stabilize their finances long-term.
As amended by the committee, LD 1522 would provide $25 million over the next two fiscal years to ensure there are adequate funds to reduce evictions and prevent homelessness across the state.
“I brought this bill forward because of what I’ve heard and seen across Maine, but especially from my constituents in Bangor, a city at the epicenter of Maine’s housing crisis,” said Rana. “From caseworkers and emergency room staff, and from tenants and landlords alike, the message has been clear: We are in an eviction crisis, and we need action that works.”
In Maine, eviction filings increased by over 16% in 2023, reaching nearly 5,800 cases, most commonly due to non-payment of rent.
According to MaineHousing, Maine experienced a significant drop in the number of people experiencing homelessness in 2024, with a decrease of over 36% compared to the previous year. However, this decrease is largely attributed to changes in program availability, particularly due to the end of pandemic-related funding for emergency hotel rooms.
“By preventing eviction, we reduce strain on shelters, health systems, law enforcement, schools and the courts which also helps municipal and state budgets,” said Rana. “Evictions don’t just hurt families – they hurt entire communities. In Maine, continuing the EPP could save millions of dollars annually in downstream public costs.”
The bill faces votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Rana is serving her second term representing House District 21, which includes a portion of Bangor. She serves as a member of the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Rana) | 305-965-2744