AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Education and Cultural Affairs Committee voted Thursday to advance an amended version of LD 1520, a measure from Rep. Cheryl Golek, D-Harpswell, that would direct the Maine Department of Education and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to study the feasibility of placing child care facilities in schools. The vote was 6-4 in favor with three members absent.

AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Taxation Committee voted Thursday to advance a measure from Rep. Mo Terry, D-Gorham, to improve economic security for Maine children by establishing a state refundable child tax credit, expanding the tax credits available for parents and other households with dependents.

AUGUSTA - Rep. Chris Kessler, D-South Portland, presented a measure last week before the Legislature's Judiciary Committee aimed at protecting Maine renters by limiting the fees that are frequently imposed on tenants upon signing a lease.

AUGUSTA - Rep. Ron Russell, D-Verona Island, welcomed Bucksport High School student groups to the State House on Thursday.

The BHS robotics team was recognized by the Legislature for placing third at the world championship. The team was one of 619 finalists to earn championship spots, competing against 3,300 teams from 23 countries around the world.

The BHS jazz combo groups were recognized for finishing second and third at the Maine Music Educators Association Instrumental Jazz Festival and taking three of five individual musician awards.

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AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee voted Wednesday to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Allison Hepler, D-Woolwich, to expand protections for Maine loons and other waterfowl by prohibiting the sale and use of certain painted lead fishing tackle, which can be fatal for these species.

AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives voted unanimously Thursday to advance LD 612, sponsored by Rep. Marc Malon, D-Biddeford, that would establish a green schools coordinator position within the Department of Education. The position would assist department staff in establishing school facility priorities and work with school administrative units to improve building weatherization and make modifications compatible with renewable energy resources.

AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Labor and Housing Committee voted last week to move forward a measure from Rep. Cheryl Golek, D-Harpswell, that would improve access to energy efficiency programs for low- and moderate-income Mainers living in manufactured homes.

AUGUSTA - Rep. Sue Salisbury, D-Westbrook, has been accepted to the Council of State Governments' New Legislative Leaders Academy which will gather officials that have been newly elected to leadership positions and facilitate discussions about leadership best practices in a nonpartisan environment.

The academy is dedicated to helping legislators advance their priorities and build connections with leaders across the country. It will take place on June 14-16.

AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives unanimously voted to advance legislation sponsored by Rep. Sam Zager, D-Portland, that would help low-income Mainers establish or improve credit through their rental payments.

AUGUSTA - Rep. Laura Supica, D-Bangor, presented legislation Monday that would establish statewide rent stabilization and amend the laws regarding lease termination and rent increases.