AUGUSTA - Members of the Legislative Council voted Monday on bill proposals for the upcoming session. Two bills sponsored by Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond, one concerning Maine's veterinary workforce and the other concerning safe drinking water, have been approved by the council to be considered next year.
The first bill, An Act To Increase Maine's Veterinary Workforce and Keep Maine Farms Healthy through a Scholarship Program, would address Maine's chronic shortage of veterinarians by improving and expanding an existing scholarship program for people intending to practice here. There are approximately only 420 veterinarians practicing now in Maine, down from 540 just a few years ago, and high student debt is often cited as a reason why people don't go to veterinary school.
"We have seen a growing shortage of veterinarians in many parts of Maine," said Fay. "We need to start a conversation about how to increase access to that care. Making veterinary school more affordable for those who will be practicing here is a good place to start."
Fay's second bill, An Act To Continue Supporting Safe Drinking Water for Maine Families, would provide funding for a program run by the Maine State Housing Authority that helps qualified homeowners pay for mitigating toxins such as arsenic in their wells. Without this mitigation available, residents run the risk of getting sick from their drinking water. More than half of the homes in Maine get drinking water from private, residential wells, and periodic testing and mediation is critical to make sure people are drinking clean water.
"Arsenic has been found in well water in District 66, and people need access to testing and mitigation in order to ensure they are drinking clean water," Fay said. "Both of these bills are important to Maine and to my district. I am looking forward to presenting these bills to the full Legislature and working on them with my colleagues."
During even-numbered years, the Legislature generally limits bill submissions to those that address emergencies and other pressing situations. The Legislative Council, which is made up of each party"s leaders in the Maine House and Senate, decides which bills fit the criteria. The Legislative Council approved only 107 bills out of the 330 proposed when they met Monday.
Fay's bills will be heard when the Legislature meets again in January.
Fay is serving her third term in the Maine Legislature and represents parts of Casco, Poland and Raymond. She serves on the Legislatures Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Fay], c. 812-1111