AUGUSTA - Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond, has been named as the Maine Council on Aging's (MCOA) 2021 "Legislator of the Year." The award recognizes the sustained efforts of legislative leaders who actively champion initiatives to improve the health, safety and economic security of older Mainers.
"I am very honored to receive this award," Fay said. "The Maine Council on Aging is one of the most important advocacy organizations for older Mainers, and their recognition means a lot to me."
Fay is being recognized for her for her unyielding commitment to and tireless advocacy on behalf of older Mainers, and for her successful efforts to bolster Maines essential support workforce. Fay co-chaired the Legislature's Commission to Study Long-Term Care Workforce Issues and has tenaciously pursued implementation of the commission's recommendations. She co-leads the Legislative Caucus on Aging, and has been an active participant in several state and federal discussions on issues impacting older Mainers. She also received the MCOA Legislator of the Year award in 2019.
"As the population of Maine ages and the number of older Mainers grows, we need to make sure the people and services are there to take care of them," said Fay. "Caregivers are often underpaid and made to feel that their work isn't important. We need to show them that their work is valued if we are to meet the need for more caregivers."
The MCOA is a network of more than 90 organizations, businesses, municipalities and older Mainers formed to address public policy concerns facing older adults in Maine. The award winners will be honored at the upcoming virtual Maine Wisdom Summit on September 21, 2021.
Fay is serving her third term in the Maine House and represents part of Casco, part of Poland and part of Raymond. She serves on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Fay], 812-1111