• Read more about House gives final approval to Gattine bill to establish homeless substance use disorder service program

AUGUSTA - The Maine House gave final approval on Wednesday to a bill sponsored by Rep. Drew Gattine, D-Westbrook, that would continue a successful homeless substance use disorder service program.

"Housing is a critical component of substance use disorder treatment," said Gattine. "Traditional case management systems are unsuitable for homeless individuals experiencing acute symptoms of substance use disorder, making them particularly susceptible to overdoses and death. More intensive, low-barrier approaches like this legislation are needed."

• Read more about Legislature advances Hepler legislation to modernize Maine's bottle redemption program

AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature advanced a bill this week from Rep. Allison Hepler, D-Woolwich, that would modernize Maine's beverage container redemption laws, also known as the "Bottle Bill."

• Read more about Westbrook legislators celebrate longtime public servant

Rep. Drew Gattine, Rep. Morgan Rielly and Rep. Sue Salisbury, all D-Westbrook, welcomed Dory Waxman to the State House on Wednesday to honor her more than 45 years of public service.

Waxman served on the Portland School Committee, Portland City Council, Portland City Charter Commission and has chaired several city committees.

She also founded a neighborhood organization and several successful local businesses.

Contact:

Brian Lee [Gattine, Rielly, Salisbury], c. 305-965-2744

• Read more about LaRochelle welcomes New England track and field champion to State House

Rep. Raegan LaRochelle, D-Augusta, presented a legislative sentiment to Conor Morin and welcomed his family and coach to the State House on Wednesday.

Morin was recognized for winning the triple jump at the 2023 New England Interscholastic Boys Outdoor Track and Field Championship.

The track and field star broke his own Cony High School record and set a new Class B record with a jump of 47 feet, 6 inches. He also placed 11th in the nation at the New Balance National Championship this month.

Contact:

Brian Lee [LaRochelle], c. 305-965-2744

• Read more about House advances Landry bill to conserve farmland, wildlife habitat to offset impact of large-scale energy developments

AUGUSTA - The Maine House gave initial approval Friday to a measure by Rep. Scott Landry, D-Farmington, to balance Maine's renewable energy development goals with efforts to conserve the states valuable farmland, soils, and fish and wildlife habitat. Lawmakers advanced the bill "under the hammer," or by unanimous consent.

• Read more about Graham delivers opening prayer in Maine House

Rep. Anne Graham, D-North Yarmouth, delivered the official prayer in the House chamber during the legislative session's opening ceremonies on Thursday.

Contact:

Brian Lee [Graham], c. 305-965-2744

• Read more about Legislature advances Rielly bill to address sexual assault and harassment within Maine National Guard

AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature voted this week to advance LD 1783, sponsored by Rep. Morgan Rielly, D-Westbrook, which would implement recommendations from the Governor's Advisory Council on Military Sexual Trauma and take additional steps to support survivors of sexual assault and harassment within the Maine National Guard.

• Read more about House unanimously enacts Stover bill to help prevent the sexual exploitation of children

AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives voted unanimously Tuesday to enact legislation sponsored by Rep. Holly Stover, D-Boothbay, that would help support survivors and help prevent the sexual exploitation of children.

• Read more about Governor signs Skold bill to establish parity in tipping laws for restaurant workers

AUGUSTA - Gov. Janet Mills signed into law last week a bill sponsored by Rep. Charles Skold, D-Portland, that will benefit both restaurants and workers by bringing Maine into alignment with recent changes in federal regulations regarding tip pooling.

• Read more about Governor signs Lee bill to increase safety on all Maine roads

AUGUSTA - On Tuesday, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law legislation sponsored by Rep. Adam Lee, D-Auburn, that will help create a transportation infrastructure that prioritizes the safety of Mainers and advances thoughtful development.