AUGUSTA- Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, presented LD 1656, An Act To Promote Energy-efficient Affordable Housing, before the Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing on Monday.
The legislation would provide funds to be used by the Maine State Housing Authority to provide energy-efficient affordable, housing and would authorize the authority to accept federal funds for this purpose. The bill leverages each dollar invested to advance three critical goals: promoting Mainers' health and economic security, reducing Maine's greenhouse gas emissions and providing clear avenues for developers to meet higher green standards.
LD 1656 also improves workforce training by requiring housing developments to use project labor agreements to raise working standards for construction trades and to expand the state's registered apprenticeship programs, thereby helping to grow the state's of skilled construction workforce.
"This legislation can help ease Maine's affordable housing shortage while making progress towards meeting Maine's need for tradesmen and tradeswomen, energy-efficient building experts and jobs that offer fair pay and benefits," said Millett. "LD 1656 recognizes the interconnectedness of the challenges we face and the need for a comprehensive solution."
The Labor and Housing Committee will hold a work session on the bill in the coming days.
Millett is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents District 30, part of Cape Elizabeth. She sits on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. Prior to representing House District 30, Millett served eight years in the State Senate, representing District 29, which includes South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and part of Scarborough.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Millett], c. 812-1111