AUGUSTA - Legislation to promote a circular economy by increasing the amount of post-consumer recycled plastic content used in plastic beverage containers, sponsored by Rep. Vicki Doudera, D-Camden, was passed to be enacted by the Maine Senate Monday.

AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature approved funding Monday for the Maine Climate Corps and the Maine Service Fellows, two new programs included in legislation sponsored by Rep. Morgan Rielly, D-Westbrook.

AUGUSTA - Rep. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth, proposed an amendment Monday to LD 1350, legislation focused on expanding Maine's clean energy economy, in an effort to decrease the states reliance on fossil fuels and address climate change.

AUGUSTA - The Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MECASA) awarded Rep. Holly Stover, D-Boothbay, with their 2022 Legislative Award. Stover was presented with the award at the MECASA Award Ceremony Monday.

The MECASA Legislative Award is dedicated to a legislator who has initiated or strongly advocated for sexual violence victim/survivor-centered legislation and demonstrates a strong commitment to working with MECASA on policy goals and initiatives.

AUGUSTA - A pair of bills to increase funding for Maine's tobacco prevention and cessation programs, sponsored by Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston, and Rep. Jay McCreight, D-Harpswell, received funding approval last week from the Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.

AUGUSTA - Three bills advancing public health, sponsored by Rep. Margaret Craven, D-Lewiston, passed the House and Senate Monday and now await signature by Gov. Janet Mills.

AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature passed a legislative sentiment Monday recognizing Rep. John Martin, D-Eagle Lake, for his 54 years of public service to the people of Maine.

AUGUSTA - Gov. Janet Mills signed into law last week a bill sponsored by Rep. Jay McCreight, D-Harpswell, that will protect patients' access to health care.

AUGUSTA - In response to news that over 857,000 Mainers will receive $850 direct relief checks after the supplemental budget was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Janet Mills, Rep. Mo Terry, D-Gorham, released the following statement:

AUGUSTA - Gov. Janet Mills has signed into law a bill sponsored by Rep. Tiffany Roberts, D-South Berwick, that would allow the state to reimburse municipalities for qualifying expenses incurred in their effort to permit licensed adult use marijuana businesses.