AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives voted unanimously Thursday to advance LD 612, sponsored by Rep. Marc Malon, D-Biddeford, that would establish a green schools coordinator position within the Department of Education. The position would assist department staff in establishing school facility priorities and work with school administrative units to improve building weatherization and make modifications compatible with renewable energy resources.
"Our school districts are dealing with increasing energy costs, which put a strain on their budgets," said Malon. "Many school leaders recognize that investments in weatherization, renewable energy generation and green standards in building construction will save them money in the long-term while also reducing their carbon emissions. By creating this position, we will help support schools' efforts to proactively address their long-term energy costs while improving sustainability and helping Maine meet its goals for addressing climate change."
The Department of Education supports this legislation and also included three new positions focused on green schools in its proposed budget.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate.
Malon is serving his first term in the Maine House, representing a portion of Biddeford. He serves as a member of the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee and the Labor and Housing Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Malon], c. 305-965-2744