AUGUSTA - The Legislative Council recently approved a bill from Rep. Colleen Madigan, D-Waterville, that would increase the nightly rate that the state pays low-barrier shelters. The bill would also direct the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to pursue a waiver to access federal Medicaid funds to serve unhoused people with substance use disorders, mental health disorders and older or disabled people with critical medical needs.
Currently, Maine only has six low-barrier shelters. The current nightly rate that the state pays these shelters is the same as the regular nightly shelter rate. Low-barrier shelters don't require individuals to be in substance use or mental health treatment, or actively participate in other programs as long as they follow the safety rules of the shelter. Because of this, operating costs are higher for these shelters, as staff need additional training in overdose prevention, the use of Narcan and de-escalation tactics in the event of a mental health crisis. With these increased costs, many are facing significant financial shortfalls.
"Increasing support for our low-barrier shelters is crucial, especially during a time where many Mainers are unhoused and experiencing substance use disorder," said Madigan. "Increasing the nightly rate will allow these shelters to continue operating and providing an invaluable service to their communities."
Madigan's bill will be heard when the Legislature meets again in January.
Madigan is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents House District 64, which includes parts of Waterville and Winslow. She serves on the Legislatures Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services.