AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Labor and Housing Committee voted unanimously on Wednesday to advance a bill sponsored by Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond, aimed at supporting safe drinking water in Maine.
LD 1891 would provide one-time funding to eligible owners of single-family homes or landlords for the treatment of private drinking water wells that show evidence of contamination. The Division of Environmental and Community Health estimates that one in 10 wells in Maine has high levels of arsenic, uranium, radon or other harmful chemicals.
"I am proud that there is unanimous, bipartisan committee support for this bill," said Fay. "Having access to safe, clean drinking water is fundamental to the health of our communities. Naturally occurring arsenic and other emerging contaminants, such as PFAS, can cause significant health problems and even developmental issues in younger children. This bill will help more people in Maine access clean well water, and help keep our kids and grandkids safe."
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Fay is serving her third term in the Maine Legislature and represents parts of Casco, Poland and Raymond. She serves on the Legislatures Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee and the Government Oversight Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Fay], c. 812-1111