History and Final Disposition of Bills in the 122nd First Regular through Second Special Sessions

LABOR

LD 7 -- HP0012
Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 15: Rules Relating to Severance Pay, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Standards.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, section 8072.)
Public Hearing: 01/25/05. OTP-AM Accepted 04/07/05. Amended by: CA H-107.
Final Disposition: Finally Passed, Signed 05/05/05, RESOLVE LAWS, Chapter 12.

LD 31 -- HP0034
An Act To Establish the Administrative Operating Budget for the Maine State Retirement System for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2006.
(Submitted by the Maine State Retirement System pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, section 17103, subsection 13.)
Public Hearing: 01/25/05. OTP-AM Accepted 03/23/05. Amended by: CA H-29.
Final Disposition: Emergency Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, P & S LAWS, Chapter 1.

LD 54 -- HP0050
An Act To Reduce Workers' Compensation Costs for Small Business Employers.
Presented By: Representative WATSON of Bath
Cosponsored By: Representatives: PATRICK of Rumford, SMITH of Van Buren, TRAHAN of Waldoboro.
Public Hearing: 02/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/22/05.

LD 93 -- SP0035
An Act Concerning Disability Retirement Benefits under the Maine State Retirement System.
Presented By: Senator MAYO of Sagadahoc
Cosponsored By: Representative HUTTON of Bowdoinham and Senators: BARTLETT of Cumberland, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representative TUTTLE of Sanford.
Public Hearing: 02/15/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 04/26/05.

LD 145 -- SP0051
An Act Concerning Appeal Rights under the Maine Enterprise Option Program.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Senator BARTLETT of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren and Senators: DIAMOND of Cumberland, PERRY of Penobscot, SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin, Representatives: BURNS of Berwick, HANLEY of Gardiner, MILLS of Farmington, SMITH of Monmouth, WATSON of Bath.
Public Hearing: 02/01/05. OTP Accepted 03/22/05.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 39.

LD 156 -- SP0062
An Act To Adjust the Wage Base for the Unemployment Compensation System.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 02/01/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/02/05.

LD 184 -- HP0135
An Act To Improve Prevailing Wage Standards in Maine.
Presented By: Representative CLARK of Millinocket
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: BURNS of Berwick, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PARADIS of Frenchville, TUTTLE of Sanford, TWOMEY of Biddeford, Senator BRYANT of Oxford.
Public Hearing: 02/08/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/19/05.

LD 190 -- HP0141
An Act Relating to the Treatment of Employers and Military Personnel in Connection with "Call to Duty" Activity.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative FISHER of Brewer
Cosponsored By: Senator BARTLETT of Cumberland and Representatives: BLANCHETTE of Bangor, BOWLES of Sanford, CANAVAN of Waterville, CRESSEY of Cornish, HOTHAM of Dixfield, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PATRICK of Rumford, Senator COURTNEY of York.
Public Hearing: 02/01/05. OTP-AM Accepted 03/22/05. Amended by: CA H-26.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 40.

LD 209 -- HP0160
An Act To Authorize the Maine State Retirement System To Provide Names and Addresses to Public Retiree Organizations.
Presented By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, SMITH of Van Buren, TUTTLE of Sanford, Senator SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin.
Public Hearing: 02/15/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 05/10/05. Amended by: CA H-153.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/20/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 149.

LD 214 -- HP0165
An Act To Recognize the Federal Salary Level for Overtime When Higher than the State Level.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative PINEAU of Jay
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PATRICK of Rumford, PELLETIER-SIMPSON of Auburn, Senators: MARTIN of Aroostook, MAYO of Sagadahoc.
Public Hearing: 02/08/05. OTP Accepted 05/19/05.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/31/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 255.

LD 215 -- HP0166
An Act To Clarify National Labor Relations Board Certification under the Overtime Provisions.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent
Cosponsored By: Senator PERRY of Penobscot and Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, MAZUREK of Rockland, PINEAU of Jay, RINES of Wiscasset, WATSON of Bath, Senator BRYANT of Oxford.
Public Hearing: 02/08/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 235 -- HP0174
An Act To Increase the Minimum Wage.
Presented By: Representative TUTTLE of Sanford
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: GLYNN of South Portland, CLARK of Millinocket, DRISCOLL of Westbrook, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PATRICK of Rumford, SMITH of Van Buren, Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 02/08/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 257 -- HP0196
Original Title: An Act To Require Advance Notice for Decreases in Wage or Salary Levels. New Title: An Act To Require Notice prior to Decreases in Wage or Salary Rates.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative TUTTLE of Sanford
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: CROSBY of Topsham, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, McCORMICK of West Gardiner, TRAHAN of Waldoboro, TWOMEY of Biddeford, Senators: COWGER of Kennebec, PERRY of Penobscot.
Public Hearing: 02/08/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 03/24/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-30.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 18.

LD 284 -- HP0209
An Act To Increase Retired Teachers' Insurance Benefits.
Presented By: Representative CANAVAN of Waterville
Cosponsored By: Senator MITCHELL of Kennebec and Representatives: DAVIS of Falmouth, EDGECOMB of Caribou, FINCH of Fairfield, FISCHER of Presque Isle, JACKSON of Fort Kent, MAZUREK of Rockland, PARADIS of Frenchville, CRAVEN of Lewiston, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, MAKAS of Lewiston, WALCOTT of Lewiston, Senator GAGNON of Kennebec.
Public Hearing: 05/17/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/31/05.

LD 302 -- SP0097
An Act To Encourage Parties To Agree to the Selection of Independent Medical Examiners in Workers' Compensation Cases.
(Submitted by the Workers' Compensation Board pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 39-A, section 152, subsection 11.)
Public Hearing: 02/24/05. OTP-AM Accepted 03/24/05. Amended by: CA S-20.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 24.

LD 309 -- HP0233
Original Title: An Act To Remove the Sunset on Part-time Unemployment Insurance Benefits. New Title: An Act To Amend the Sunset on Part-time Unemployment Insurance Benefits.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, NORTON of Bangor, PATRICK of Rumford, TUTTLE of Sanford, Senators: EDMONDS of Cumberland, NUTTING of Androscoggin.
Public Hearing: 02/17/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 05/26/05. Amended by: CA H-33, HC H-402, SB/CA (Changed Title) S-318.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/24/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 454.

LD 322 -- HP0245
An Act To Amend the Process for Review of Hearing Officer Decisions by the Workers' Compensation Board.
(Submitted by the Workers' Compensation Board pursuant to the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 39-A, section 152, subsection 11.)
Public Hearing: 02/24/05. OTP Accepted 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 25.

LD 350 -- HP0263
Original Title: An Act To Provide Equal Treatment for All Veterans in the Laws Governing the Maine State Retirement System. New Title: An Act To Provide Funding To Allow Veterans Who Received Certain Combat Medals To Purchase Subsidized Service Time towards Their Retirement.
Presented By: Representative CAMPBELL of Newfield
Cosponsored By: Senator NASS of York and Representatives: GLYNN of South Portland, GROSE of Woolwich, JACOBSEN of Waterboro, LEWIN of Eliot, WALCOTT of Lewiston, WEBSTER of Freeport, WHEELER of Kittery, Senator COURTNEY of York.
Public Hearing: 02/15/05. Appropriations Table 04/04/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to Senate Paper 640 06/18/05.

LD 378 -- HP0280
An Act Authorizing the Commissioner of Labor To Negotiate Settlements in Cases of Overpayment of Unemployment Compensation.
Presented By: Representative DAVIS of Falmouth
Cosponsored By: Senator BRENNAN of Cumberland and Representatives: CRESSEY of Cornish, JOY of Crystal, MARLEY of Portland, PINEAU of Jay, SHERMAN of Hodgdon, STEDMAN of Hartland, SYKES of Harrison, TRAHAN of Waldoboro.
Public Hearing: 02/17/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/08/05.

LD 393 -- HP0295
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing Bargaining Agents for Public Universities and Colleges.
Presented By: Representative AUSTIN of Gray
Cosponsored By: Senator SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin and Representatives: BRYANT-DESCHENES of Turner, CROSTHWAITE of Ellsworth, FLETCHER of Winslow, JOY of Crystal, LANSLEY of Sabattus, MOORE of Standish.
Public Hearing: 02/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/22/05.

LD 396 -- HP0299
An Act To Amend the Laws Concerning the Maine State Retirement System.
(Submitted by the Maine State Retirement System pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren.
Public Hearing: 02/15/05. Majority (OTP) Accepted 05/18/05.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/26/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 238.

LD 423 -- HP0308
An Act To Allow Food Service Workers for Public Schools To Collect Unemployment Benefits.
Presented By: Representative CRAVEN of Lewiston
Cosponsored By: Senator MARTIN of Aroostook and Representatives: CANAVAN of Waterville, DUNN of Bangor, FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, NORTON of Bangor, SMITH of Van Buren, TUTTLE of Sanford, WALCOTT of Lewiston.
Public Hearing: 02/17/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 04/12/05.

LD 425 -- HP0310
An Act To Amend the Laws Relating to Unemployment Compensation.
Presented By: Representative FISCHER of Presque Isle.
Public Hearing: 02/17/05. OTP-AM Accepted 03/28/05. Amended by: CA H-31.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 35.

LD 430 -- HP0315
An Act To Modify the Obligation To Bargain under the Municipal Public Employees Labor Relations Law.
Presented By: Representative NORTON of Bangor
Cosponsored By: Senator EDMONDS of Cumberland and Representatives: CRAVEN of Lewiston, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, MAKAS of Lewiston, MERRILL of Appleton, SMITH of Van Buren.
Public Hearing: 02/24/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 435 -- HP0320
An Act To Conform Maine Law to Federal Overtime Standards.
Presented By: Representative McKANE of Newcastle
Cosponsored By: Senator SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin and Representatives: McFADDEN of Dennysville, MILLETT of Waterford, TRAHAN of Waldoboro, VAUGHAN of Durham.
Public Hearing: 03/08/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/26/05.

LD 445 -- SP0143
An Act To Index the Minimum Wage for Inflation and To Permit a Training Wage for Workers under 17 Years of Age.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 02/15/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/08/05.

LD 485 -- HP0360
An Act To Prohibit Permanent Replacement Workers.
Presented By: Representative PINEAU of Jay
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: ADAMS of Portland, BEAUDETTE Of Biddeford, BLANCHETTE of Bangor, BRYANT of Windham, BURNS of Berwick, CLARK of Millinocket, DAVIS of Falmouth, EBERLE of South Portland, FISHER of Brewer, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, JENNINGS of Leeds, KOFFMAN of Bar Harbor, MARLEY of Portland, MILLER of Somerville, NORTON of Bangor, O'BRIEN of Lewiston, PARADIS of Frenchville, PATRICK of Rumford, PELLETIER-SIMPSON of Auburn, SAMPSON of Auburn, SMITH of Van Buren, TWOMEY of Biddeford, WALCOTT of Lewiston, WATSON of Bath, WEBSTER of Freeport, WHEELER of Kittery, Senators: DIAMOND of Cumberland, GAGNON of Kennebec.
Public Hearing: 02/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 487 -- HP0362
An Act Concerning Payment of Health Insurance Premiums for Surviving Spouses of Maine State Retirement System Members.
Presented By: Representative DAVIS of Falmouth
Cosponsored By: Representatives: COLLINS of Wells, MARLEY of Portland.
Public Hearing: 03/03/05. OTP-AM Accepted 04/14/05. Amended by: CA H-122.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/05/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 67.

LD 490 -- HP0365
An Act To Eliminate the Offset for Social Security and Certain Other Pensions for Unemployment Benefits.
Presented By: Representative CAMPBELL of Newfield
Cosponsored By: Senator ANDREWS of York and Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, BROWN of South Berwick, CARR of Lincoln, COLLINS of Wells, CRAVEN of Lewiston, LEWIN of Eliot, PINGREE of North Haven, SMITH of Van Buren, WALCOTT of Lewiston.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Minority (ONTP) Accepted 06/08/05.

LD 493 -- HP0368
An Act To Require That All Public School Employees Be Paid a Livable Wage Rate.
Presented By: Representative DAVIS of Falmouth
Cosponsored By: Representatives: COLLINS of Wells, MARLEY of Portland.
Public Hearing: 03/08/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/09/05.

LD 515 -- HP0391
An Act To Increase the Limit on the Right To Rejoin the Maine State Retirement System.
Presented By: Representative HOGAN of Old Orchard Beach
Cosponsored By: Senator DAMON of Hancock and Representatives: BROWNE of Vassalboro, CUMMINGS of Portland, FARRINGTON of Gorham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, MAZUREK of Rockland, MERRILL of Appleton, PARADIS of Frenchville.
Public Hearing: 03/03/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 04/07/05. Amended by: CA H-106.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/05/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 76.

LD 520 -- HP0396
An Act To Improve Binding Arbitration in Public Sector Labor Relations.
Presented By: Representative TUTTLE of Sanford
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, CUMMINGS of Portland, DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, JACKSON of Fort Kent, RICHARDSON of Brunswick.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/07/05.

LD 540 -- SP0166
An Act To Clarify the Rate of Interest on Awards for Workers' Compensation Benefits.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 02/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/22/05.

LD 546 -- SP0172
An Act to Promote Responsible Contracting Practices on State Projects.
Presented By: Senator EDMONDS of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative DUPLESSIE of Westbrook and Senators: BARTLETT of Cumberland, BRYANT of Oxford, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representatives: DUNN of Bangor, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PATRICK of Rumford, PINEAU of Jay.
Public Hearing: 03/08/05.
Final Disposition: Minority (ONTP) Accepted 06/02/05.

LD 569 -- SP0177
An Act To Correct an Inequity in Calculating Maine State Retirement Benefits.
Presented By: Senator MAYO of Sagadahoc.
Public Hearing: 03/03/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 03/22/05.

LD 573 -- SP0181
An Act To Generate Savings in the Unemployment Compensation Fund.
Presented By: Senator CLUKEY of Aroostook
Cosponsored By: Representative MILLETT of Waterford and Senator DOW of Lincoln, Representatives: CARR of Lincoln, JOY of Crystal, SHERMAN of Hodgdon, THOMAS of Ripley.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/09/05.

LD 579 -- SP0188
An Act To Supplement Benefits for State Employees and Teachers Whose Pensions Are Subject to Reductions Enacted in 1993.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 03/03/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/07/05.

LD 583 -- SP0192
An Act To Amend the Law Regarding the Use of "Hearing Dogs" by Deaf and Hard-of-hearing Persons.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Senator EDMONDS of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative PERCY of Phippsburg and Senators: ANDREWS of York, CLUKEY of Aroostook, Representatives: CARR of Lincoln, MILLER of Somerville, MOODY of Manchester, NUTTING of Oakland, SAMPSON of Auburn.
Public Hearing: 04/27/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 659 -- HP0479
Original Title: An Act To Allow for Equitable Recovery of Wages for Employees Who Are Undercompensated. New Title: An Act To Allow for Equitable Recovery of Wages for Employees Who Are Not Paid in Full.
Presented By: Representative HUTTON of Bowdoinham
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: JACKSON of Fort Kent, NORTON of Bangor, PATRICK of Rumford, PINEAU of Jay, Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 03/08/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/03/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-158.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/12/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 103.

LD 721 -- HP0516
An Act To Make the Minimum Wage a Livable Wage.
Presented By: Representative EDER of Portland.
Public Hearing: 03/08/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 04/26/05.

LD 730 -- HP0525
An Act To Require Proof of Equipment Ownership for Employers Using Foreign Laborers.
Presented By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PATRICK of Rumford, PINEAU of Jay, SMITH of Van Buren, Senator MARTIN of Aroostook.
Public Hearing: 04/06/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 06/17/05. Amended by: CA H-372, HA/CA H-708.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/30/05, LAWS, Chapter 461.

LD 748 -- SP0246
Original Title: Resolve, Establishing the Commission To Study Eliminating the Normal Retirement Age for Corrections Officers and Mental Health Workers. New Title: Resolve, Establishing the Commission To Study Retirement Eligibility and Benefits for Corrections Officers, Certain Other Law Enforcement Officers and Mental Health Workers.
Presented By: Senator GAGNON of Kennebec
Cosponsored By: Representative DUPLESSIE of Westbrook and Senators: EDMONDS of Cumberland, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representative CUMMINGS of Portland.
Public Hearing: 03/03/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 758 -- HP0535
An Act To Increase Retired Teachers' Health Insurance Benefits.
Presented By: Representative GLYNN of South Portland.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05. Appropriations Table 06/02/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to Senate Paper 640 06/18/05.

LD 809 -- HP0574
An Act To Facilitate Testimony in Workers' Compensation Proceedings.
Presented By: Representative PERRY of Calais
Cosponsored By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/03/05. Amended by: CA H-146.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/12/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 99.

LD 840 -- SP0279
An Act To Distribute Costs for the Funding of Pensions and Health Insurance for Retired Teachers.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/07/05.

LD 878 -- SP0286
An Act To Allow Assignment of Workers' Compensation Payments to 3rd Parties Providing Income Protection Benefits.
Presented By: Senator MAYO of Sagadahoc
Cosponsored By: Representative DUDLEY of Portland and Senators: BRENNAN of Cumberland, SULLIVAN of York, Representative PERRY of Calais.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/26/05.

LD 879 -- SP0287
An Act To Ensure Equity in Appeals of Workers' Compensation Cases.
Presented By: Senator WESTON of Waldo.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/16/05.

LD 881 -- SP0289
An Act To Amend the Maine Workers' Compensation Act of 1992 To Facilitate Timely Independent Medical Examinations and Benefit Payments.
Presented By: Senator MAYO of Sagadahoc
Cosponsored By: Representative SHIELDS of Auburn.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/18/05.

LD 896 -- SP0304
An Act To Encourage State Employees To Continue Employment.
Presented By: Senator PERRY of Penobscot
Cosponsored By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent and Senators: BRENNAN of Cumberland, EDMONDS of Cumberland, MILLS of Somerset, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, DAVIS of Falmouth, DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, TUTTLE of Sanford.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/04/05.

LD 901 -- SP0309
Resolve, To Create a New Pension System for Newly Hired Teachers and State Employees.
Presented By: Senator MILLS of Somerset.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/07/05.

LD 912 -- HP0631
An Act Regarding Noncompete Agreements.
Presented By: Representative MOORE of Standish
Cosponsored By: Representative RICHARDSON of Skowhegan.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/07/05.

LD 916 -- HP0635
Original Title: An Act To Amend the Workers' Compensation Medical Fee Schedule To Include Hospital Charges. New Title: Resolve, Establishing the Commission on Maximum Hospital Charges for Workers' Compensation.
Presented By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PATRICK of Rumford, PERRY of Calais, PINEAU of Jay, WATSON of Bath.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/17/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-338. House: Finally Passed 05/20/05, Adhere to Final Passage 06/17/05. Senate: Indefinitely Postponed 06/17/05, Adhere to Indefinite Postponement 06/18/05.
Final Disposition: Died Between Houses 06/17/05.

LD 943 -- SP0318
An Act To Amend the Laws Governing the Department of Labor's Construction Industry Wage and Hour Survey.
Presented By: Senator COWGER of Kennebec
Cosponsored By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren and Senator BRYANT of Oxford, Representatives: DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, HANLEY of Gardiner, JENNINGS of Leeds, PELLETIER-SIMPSON of Auburn, PINEAU of Jay, PIOTTI of Unity, TWOMEY of Biddeford.
Public Hearing: 04/06/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/17/05. Amended by: CA S-177.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/25/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 232.

LD 962 -- HP0672
An Act To Codify Unallocated Law Regarding the Maine State Retirement System.
(Submitted by the Department of Administrative and Financial Services pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative TUTTLE of Sanford.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05. OTP Accepted 03/24/05.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 04/01/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 21.

LD 963 -- HP0673
An Act To Set Standards for Electronic Methods Used for Wage Payment.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative HUTTON of Bowdoinham
Cosponsored By: Senator SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin and Representatives: BIERMAN of Sorrento, COLLINS of Wells, EDER of Portland, KOFFMAN of Bar Harbor, McKANE of Newcastle, SAVIELLO of Wilton, WEBSTER of Freeport, Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/03/05. Amended by: CA H-160.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/12/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 89.

LD 978 -- HP0688
Original Title: An Act, Directing the Advisory Council on Tax-deferred Arrangements To Study Deferred Retirement Option Programs. New Title: Resolve, Directing the Advisory Council on Tax-deferred Arrangements To Study Deferred Retirement Option Programs.
Presented By: Representative LERMAN of Augusta
Cosponsored By: Representative DUPLESSIE of Westbrook.
Public Hearing: 03/15/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/03/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-145.
Final Disposition: Finally Passed, Signed 05/12/05, RESOLVE LAWS, Chapter 17.

LD 995 -- SP0335
An Act To Conform Maine Employment Security Law with the Federal SUTA Dumping Prevention Act of 2004.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative HALL of Holden and Senator HOBBINS of York, Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, CRESSEY of Cornish, DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, HOTHAM of Dixfield, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PERRY of Calais.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/05/05. Amended by: CA S-97.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/18/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 120.

LD 996 -- SP0336
Resolve, Establishing the Commission To Study Medical Expenses Under the Maine Workers' Compensation Act of 1992.
Presented By: Senator PLOWMAN of Penobscot
Cosponsored By: Senators: ANDREWS of York, COURTNEY of York, MILLS of Somerset, Representatives: FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, MILLS of Farmington, TARDY of Newport.
Public Hearing: 03/22/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 1005 -- SP0345
Resolve, To Establish an Apprenticeship Program for Shipbuilders.
Presented By: Senator SULLIVAN of York
Cosponsored By: Representative PINGREE of North Haven and Senators: DAMON of Hancock, DOW of Lincoln, HOBBINS of York, RAYE of Washington, Representatives: BEAUDETTE Of Biddeford, PERRY of Calais, RECTOR of Thomaston, SMITH of Monmouth.
Public Hearing: 04/06/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/26/05.

LD 1021 -- HP0706
An Act To Implement Task Force Recommendations Relating to Parity and Portability of Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters.
(Submitted by the Task Force to Study Parity and Portability of Retirement Benefits for State Law Enforcement Officers, Municipal and County Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters pursuant to Resolve 2003, chapter 76.)
Public Hearing: 04/05/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 1044 -- SP0361
An Act To Care for Families.
Presented By: Senator EDMONDS of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative RICHARDSON of Brunswick and Senators: BARTLETT of Cumberland, MITCHELL of Kennebec, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, CUMMINGS of Portland, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, TUTTLE of Sanford.
Public Hearing: 05/17/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 06/06/05. Amended by: CA S-280, SA/CA S-335, SC/CA S-347.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/24/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 455.

LD 1050 -- SP0367
An Act To Promote Enforcement of Labor Laws Affecting Employers.
Presented By: Senator EDMONDS of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren and Senator BRYANT of Oxford, Representatives: PATRICK of Rumford, PINEAU of Jay.
Public Hearing: 04/14/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 1054 -- SP0371
Resolve, Directing the Maine State Retirement System To Amend Its Rules To Clarify That Officers of the State Police Who Reach Retirement Age May Continue Working and Receiving Retirement Benefits.
Presented By: Senator HOBBINS of York
Cosponsored By: Senators: CLUKEY of Aroostook, DAVIS of Piscataquis.
Public Hearing: 04/05/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/26/05.

LD 1080 -- HP0733
An Act To Reimburse Allan Wyman for Contributions to the Retired Teachers' Health Insurance Plan.
Presented By: Representative MILLS of Farmington.
Public Hearing: 04/05/05.
Final Disposition: Indefinitely Postponed 06/17/05.

LD 1123 -- HP0776
An Act To Promote Stability in Labor Relations.
Presented By: Representative DUPLESSIE of Westbrook
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, NORTON of Bangor, PINEAU of Jay, Senator GAGNON of Kennebec.
Public Hearing: 03/24/05. Majority (OTP-AM) Accepted 05/26/05. Amended by: CA H-492.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/07/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 324.

LD 1143 -- HP0786
An Act To Protect Workers in the Mortgage and Mortgage Refinance Services Fields.
Presented By: Representative LERMAN of Augusta.
Public Hearing: 04/14/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/03/05.

LD 1170 -- SP0398
An Act To Exempt Fire Departments from Biweekly Pay Requirements for Volunteer Firefighters.
Presented By: Senator SAVAGE of Knox
Cosponsored By: Representative COLLINS of Wells and Senators: CLUKEY of Aroostook, DAVIS of Piscataquis, NASS of York, WESTON of Waldo, Representatives: BOWEN of Rockport, McKANE of Newcastle.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/09/05. Amended by: CA S-113.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/18/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 126.

LD 1197 -- HP0825
An Act To Allow a One-time Change in Benefit Payment Option Selection under the Maine State Retirement System.
Presented By: Representative MILLER of Somerville
Cosponsored By: Senator MAYO of Sagadahoc and Representatives: CAMPBELL of Newfield, DUPLESSIE of Westbrook.
Public Hearing: 04/05/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/26/05.

LD 1214 -- HP0832
An Act To Require Inspectors from the Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Standards To Provide Advance Notice of Inspections.
Presented By: Representative CLARK of Millinocket.
Public Hearing: 04/28/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/19/05.

LD 1223 -- HP0841
Resolve, Directing the Maine State Retirement System To Support the Federal Public Servant Retirement Protection Act.
Presented By: Representative BISHOP of Boothbay
Cosponsored By: Senator DOW of Lincoln and Representatives: BRYANT of Windham, CLARK of Millinocket, EDGECOMB of Caribou, FLETCHER of Winslow, FLOOD of Winthrop, JODREY of Bethel, RECTOR of Thomaston, SCHATZ of Blue Hill, SHIELDS of Auburn.
Public Hearing: 04/05/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 04/26/05.

LD 1236 -- HP0854
Resolve, To Establish the Study Commission Regarding Liveable Wages.
Presented By: Representative LERMAN of Augusta
Cosponsored By: Representatives: GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PATRICK of Rumford, SMITH of Van Buren, Senators: BARTLETT of Cumberland, STRIMLING of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 04/06/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/09/05. Amended by: CA H-232, SB/CA S-384.
Final Disposition: Finally Passed, Signed 06/24/05, RESOLVE LAWS, Chapter 128.

LD 1238 -- HP0856
An Act To Ensure Compliance with Safety Regulations.
Presented By: Representative PINEAU of Jay
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: BRYANT of Windham, CLARK of Millinocket, JACKSON of Fort Kent, WHEELER of Kittery, Senator MARTIN of Aroostook.
Public Hearing: 04/28/05.
Final Disposition: Died in Concurrence 06/01/05.

LD 1247 -- HP0865
An Act To Modify Labor Laws with Regard to Minor Workers.
Presented By: Representative THOMPSON of China
Cosponsored By: Senator COWGER of Kennebec and Representatives: BROWNE of Vassalboro, FLETCHER of Winslow, JACKSON of Fort Kent, MOODY of Manchester, PERCY of Phippsburg, PIOTTI of Unity.
Public Hearing: 04/14/05.
Final Disposition: Majority (ONTP) Accepted 05/26/05.

LD 1269 -- SP0449
An Act To Change the Retirement Eligibility Requirements for Investigators in the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of the Secretary of State.
Presented By: Senator BARTLETT of Cumberland
Cosponsored By: Representative FARRINGTON of Gorham and Senators: STRIMLING of Cumberland, SULLIVAN of York, Representatives: BARSTOW of Gorham, DRISCOLL of Westbrook, FISHER of Brewer, MARLEY of Portland.
Public Hearing: 04/27/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 1276 -- HP0873
An Act To Prohibit the Use of Foreign Labor Unless a Federal Prevailing Wage Is Set.
Presented By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent
Cosponsored By: Senator MARTIN of Aroostook and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, DRISCOLL of Westbrook, DUGAY of Cherryfield, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PINEAU of Jay, SMITH of Van Buren, TUTTLE of Sanford, Senator BARTLETT of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 05/17/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 1329 -- SP0456
Original Title: An Act To Require the Workers' Compensation Board To Use the 5th Edition "Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment" in Assessing Workers' Compensation Injuries Involving the Spinal Column. New Title: Resolve, Directing the Workers' Compensation Board To Consider Adoption of the "Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment," 5th Edition, in Assessing Workers' Compensation Injuries.
Presented By: Senator NUTTING of Androscoggin
Cosponsored By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren and Senators: BRYANT of Oxford, EDMONDS of Cumberland, MILLS of Somerset, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representatives: HUTTON of Bowdoinham, TUTTLE of Sanford.
Public Hearing: 04/28/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/19/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) S-189.
Final Disposition: Emergency Finally Passed, Signed 05/26/05, RESOLVE LAWS, Chapter 53.

LD 1353 -- HP0936
An Act To Allow Certain School Employees To Collect Unemployment.
(Approved for introduction by a majority of the Legislative Council pursuant to Joint Rule 205.)
Presented By: Representative JACKSON of Fort Kent.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/05/05.

LD 1361 -- HP0944
Original Title: An Act To Enhance Workplace Safety and Health through Substance Abuse Testing and Treatment. New Title: An Act To Refine and Study Substance Abuse Testing Procedures and Treatment.
Presented By: Representative PERRY of Calais
Cosponsored By: Senator MARTIN of Aroostook and Representatives: DUCHESNE of Hudson, MARRACHE of Waterville, MAZUREK of Rockland, PIOTTI of Unity, Senator NUTTING of Androscoggin.
Public Hearing: 04/28/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/20/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-428, SA/CA S-386.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/23/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 443.

LD 1384 -- HP0961
An Act To Assist Businesses To Retain Seasonal Employees and Reduce the Burden on the Bureau of Unemployment Compensation.
Presented By: Representative BISHOP of Boothbay.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/03/05.

LD 1398 -- SP0487
An Act To Align Federal and State Child Labor Laws.
Presented By: Senator COWGER of Kennebec
Cosponsored By: Representative COLLINS of Wells and Senators: CLUKEY of Aroostook, DIAMOND of Cumberland, DOW of Lincoln, NUTTING of Androscoggin, SULLIVAN of York, Representatives: McCORMICK of West Gardiner, MILLS of Farmington.
Public Hearing: 04/14/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/05/05.

LD 1410 -- HP0974
An Act To Require That the Maine Unemployment Insurance Commission Maintain Its Principal Office in the Augusta Area.
Presented By: Representative TUTTLE of Sanford
Cosponsored By: Senator SNOWE-MELLO of Androscoggin and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, CRESSEY of Cornish, DUPREY of Hampden, HALL of Holden, HAMPER of Oxford, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, SMITH of Van Buren.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/03/05.

LD 1413 -- HP0977
An Act To Conform the Remedies under the Maine Family Medical Leave Requirements with Those Available under Federal Law.
Presented By: Representative PELLETIER-SIMPSON of Auburn
Cosponsored By: Representatives: ADAMS of Portland, BRYANT of Windham, FAIRCLOTH of Bangor, RICHARDSON of Brunswick, Senator HOBBINS of York.
Public Hearing: 04/14/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/17/05. Amended by: CA H-348.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/25/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 228.

LD 1419 -- HP0983
An Act To Amend the Laws Regarding Certain Employment-related Matters.
(Submitted by the Department of Labor pursuant to Joint Rule 204.)
Presented By: Representative SMITH of Van Buren
Cosponsored By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland and Representatives: FISHER of Brewer, GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, PINEAU of Jay, THOMPSON of China.
Public Hearing: 04/12/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/09/05. Amended by: CA H-233.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 05/18/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 119.

LD 1470 -- HP1033
Original Title: An Act To Give Retirement Credits to Judges Who Have Served in the Legislature. New Title: Resolve, Directing the Judicial Compensation Commission to Examine Allowing Judges To Receive Service Credit for Prior Legislative Service.
Presented By: Representative MILLS of Farmington
Cosponsored By: Representatives: CARR of Lincoln, RICHARDSON of Brunswick, SAVIELLO of Wilton, TARDY of Newport, Senators: HASTINGS of Oxford, WOODCOCK of Franklin.
Public Hearing: 04/27/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/20/05. Amended by: CA (Changed Title) H-427.
Final Disposition: Finally Passed, Signed 06/03/05, RESOLVE LAWS, Chapter 86.

LD 1476 -- SP0501
An Act To Provide an Annual Cost-of-living Adjustment for Persons Receiving Workers' Compensation Benefits for Total Incapacity.
Presented By: Senator NUTTING of Androscoggin
Cosponsored By: Representative PINEAU of Jay and Senators: COWGER of Kennebec, STRIMLING of Cumberland, Representatives: GERZOFSKY of Brunswick, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, PATRICK of Rumford, SMITH of Van Buren.
Public Hearing: 04/28/05. House: Minority (ONTP) Report 06/09/05, Adhere to Minority (ONTP) Report 06/10/05. Senate: Majority (OTP-AM) Report 05/19/05, Insist on Engrossment 06/09/05.
Final Disposition: Died Between Houses 06/10/05.

LD 1486 -- HP1042
An Act To Amend the Law Allowing Legislative Staff To Unionize.
Presented By: Representative McKANE of Newcastle
Cosponsored By: Senator DAVIS of Piscataquis and Representatives: BOWLES of Sanford, CLOUGH of Scarborough, JOY of Crystal, MOULTON of York, TARDY of Newport, TRAHAN of Waldoboro, VAUGHAN of Durham, Senator WESTON of Waldo.
Public Hearing: 04/27/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 1570 -- HP1108
An Act To Require Random Drug Testing for Emergency Vehicle Operators.
Presented By: Representative CLOUGH of Scarborough
Cosponsored By: Senator COURTNEY of York and Representatives: DAIGLE of Arundel, HOTHAM of Dixfield, LERMAN of Augusta, TARDY of Newport.
Public Hearing: 05/03/05.
Final Disposition: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant to Joint Rule 310 05/20/05.

LD 1604 -- SP0585
An Act To Restructure the Unfunded Liability of the Maine State Retirement System.
(Approved for introduction by a majority of the Legislative Council pursuant to Joint Rule 205.)
Presented By: Senator STRIMLING of Cumberland.
Public Hearing: 05/03/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 1628 -- HP1146
An Act Regarding Occupational Safety and Health Training for Workers on State-funded Construction Projects.
Presented By: Representative PATRICK of Rumford
Cosponsored By: Senator BRYANT of Oxford and Representatives: CLARK of Millinocket, HUTTON of Bowdoinham, JACKSON of Fort Kent, PINEAU of Jay, SAVIELLO of Wilton, SMITH of Van Buren, TUTTLE of Sanford, WATSON of Bath.
Public Hearing: 05/10/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.

LD 1652 -- HP1166
An Act To Establish a Fair System for the Protection of Volunteer Firefighters' Employment.
(Approved for introduction by a majority of the Legislative Council pursuant to Joint Rule 205.)
Presented By: Representative DUCHESNE of Hudson
Cosponsored By: Representatives: ANNIS of Dover-Foxcroft, DUPLESSIE of Westbrook, HUTTON of Bowdoinham.
Public Hearing: 05/10/05. OTP-AM Accepted 05/25/05. Amended by: CA H-493.
Final Disposition: Enacted, Signed 06/02/05, PUBLIC LAWS, Chapter 296.

LD 1654 -- SP0613
An Act To Prevent the Loss of Jobs through Outsourcing.
Presented By: Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin.
Public Hearing: 05/17/05.
Final Disposition: Carried Over Pursuant to HP 1203 06/18/05.