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In this upcoming legislative session, we will be working our way through over 700 bills, many of which tackle important and politically charged issues. I would value your input on any subject, but especially on the issues listed below before I cast my votes.
Gun safety:
I’ve heard from many constituents about the need to act in response to the mass shootings in Lewiston. Since then, I’ve had numerous conversations with law enforcement, Democratic and Republican colleagues, hunters, teachers, physicians, mental health professionals, and neighbors. These discussions have given me confidence that we can come together in the House of Representatives to enact thoughtful measures that will improve public safety while respecting constitutional rights and honoring Maine’s rich hunting traditions.
Flavored tobacco:
LD 1215 would prohibit the sale and distribution of flavored tobacco products, including flavored cigars and e-cigarettes. This bill has already been passed in the State Senate but has not yet come to a vote in the House.
National popular vote:
LD 1578 creates an interstate compact agreement among the States to elect the President of the United States by awarding each state’s electoral votes to the candidate that wins the greatest number of votes nationwide. The compact wouldn’t go into effect until states that represent the majority of electoral votes (270) have signed on. A public hearing on this bill has been scheduled for January 8th at 10am.
Staffing ratios for nurses:
LD 1639 establishes minimum direct-care registered nurse staffing requirements based on patient care unit and patient needs, specifies the method to calculate a health care facility's compliance with the staffing requirements, protects direct-care registered nurses from retaliation, and includes notice, record-keeping, and enforcement requirements. This bill passed out of committee with a divided “Ought to Pass” majority report but has not yet been voted on in either the Senate or the House.
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