AUGUSTA - A measure sponsored by Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, which would create the Recovery Community Centers Fund within the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills on Monday.
The bill, which received unanimous support from the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Taxation, also received funding from the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, ensuring that community members struggling with substance use disorder have ongoing access to recovery services.
LD 1714 allocates $2 million annually to the new fund, a sustainable revenue source for the more than 20 recovery community centers across the state, starting in July 2025. These centers provide nonclinical, peer recovery support services, including group support, recovery coaching and harm reduction services.
"Many members of the recovery community bravely presented their heart-wrenching stories to lawmakers, and we listened," said Rana. "This achievement is the result of two years of grassroots organizing and advocacy by Maine's recovery community to ensure that a sustainable funding source is available for many years to come. Recovery Community Centers are staples in our communities and have an immeasurably, positive impact. These centers, many operating on shoestring budgets, hopes and dreams, ensure that no one gets left behind on their recovery journey."
Rana is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents House District 21, which includes a portion of Bangor. She serves on the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Taxation and the Joint Select Committee on Housing.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Rana], 305-965-2744