AUGUSTA - Rep. Kristi Mathieson, D-Kittery, introduced legislation on Friday at a public hearing before the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee that would make adjustments to Maine's general assistance program.
General assistance is a short-term assistance program run by local governments to help provide basic needs of eligible residents. Municipalities are reimbursed a portion of the cost of the program by the state. LD 1426 would increase the state reimbursement amount from 70% to 90%. It would also direct the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to reimburse each municipality for 5% of the administrative costs associated with the program.
"General assistance programs at the municipal level are an important tool to provide temporary support for those experiencing a crisis or financial hardship," said Mathieson. "These programs are essential for providing a safety net for our vulnerable neighbors. The increased reimbursement rate in this bill would help municipalities offer crucial emergency assistance for those that need it most."
Additionally, the bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to establish a 24-hour hotline to provide advice and information to municipalities regarding general assistance. General assistance administrators would also have to complete a training course within 120 days of appointment or election to that position.
Mathieson is serving her second term in the Maine House representing Kittery. She serves on the Legislature's Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee and the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Mathieson], c. 305-965-2744