AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives voted unanimously on Thursday to enact LD 1169, sponsored by Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston. The legislation would change the Foreign Credentialing and Skills Recognition Revolving Loan Program to a grant program and increase the maximum allowable distribution of funds to eligible applicants from the current $700 to $1,000.
"If we want to fully address our workforce challenges in Maine, we need to focus on improving programs that assist all Mainers, including the newest community members in our state," said Cloutier. "Shifting the Foreign Credentialing and Skills Recognition Revolving Loan Program to a grant-based program will dramatically increase who utilizes it, which will benefit our employers in the long run."
The loan program, administered by the Finance Authority of Maine, currently provides loans to assist asylum seekers in becoming more prepared to enter the workforce. This includes taking driver's education courses, taking English language proficiency examinations, translating foreign education and experience credentials and more.
The bill faces further votes in the Legislature.
Cloutier is the assistant House majority leader and is currently serving her third term in the Maine House of Representatives. She represents House District 94, which includes part of Lewiston, her hometown.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Cloutier], 305-965-2744