26th Legislative Day                                                                        Tuesday, March 19, 2024

 

            Calling of the House to Order by the Speaker.

 

            Prayer by Honorable Anne P. Graham, North Yarmouth.

 

            National Anthem by Gary Crocker, West Gardiner.

 

            Pledge of Allegiance.

 

            Medical Provider of the Day, Kimberly M. Caldwell, MPAS, PA-C, Auburn.

 

            Reading of the Journal of Thursday, March 14, 2024.

_________________________________

 

SENATE PAPERS

 

            (1-1)  Bill "An Act to Create the Lincoln Mill Facilities District" (EMERGENCY)

(S.P. 986)  (L.D. 2270)

 

            Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESS suggested and ordered printed.

 

 

            Comes from the Senate, REFERRED to the Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGYand ordered printed.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Non-Concurrent Matter

 

 

            (1-2)  Bill "An Act to Extend and Expand the Loring Job Increment Financing Fund"

(S.P. 810)  (L.D. 1981)

 

            PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-544) in the House on March 13, 2024.

 

            Comes from the Senate with that Body having INSISTED on its former action whereby the Bill was PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-544) AS AMENDED BY SENATE AMENDMENT "A" (S-557)thereto in NON-CONCURRENCE.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Non-Concurrent Matter

 

 

            (1-3)  Bill "An Act to Transfer the Arch Hangar at the Former Loring Air Force Base to the Loring Air Museum"

(S.P. 823)  (L.D. 1998)

 

            Majority (10) OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report of the Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESS READ and ACCEPTED in the House on March 13, 2024.

 

            Comes from the Senate with that Body having INSISTED on its former action whereby the Minority (3) OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report of the Committee on INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT AND BUSINESS was READ and ACCEPTEDand the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-561) in NON-CONCURRENCE.

 

_________________________________

 

 

COMMUNICATIONS

 

 

            (2-1)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 450)

 

STATE OF MAINE

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE

COMMITTEE ON CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY

 

The Honorable Troy Jackson

President of the Senate

 

The Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House

 

131st Legislature

State House

Augusta, ME 04333

 

Dear President Jackson and Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

Please accept this letter as the report of the findings of the Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety from its review and evaluation of the Department of Public Safety pursuant to the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3, Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.

 

Pursuant to the Requirements of the Act, the committee notified the department by letter of its intent to review the department on May 2, 2023. The department submitted its evaluation report November 1, 2023 and presented the report to the committee on January 30, 2024. The committee held a work session on the report on March 5, 2024 to discuss the report.

 

The committee has reviewed the report and finds the Department of Public Safety is operating within its statutory authority and meets all criteria under the Act.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Senator Pinny Beebe-Center

Senate Chair

 

S/Representative Suzanne Salisbury

House Chair

 

_________________________________

 

            (2-2)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 451)

 

STATE OF MAINE

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE

COMMITTEE ON CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY

 

The Honorable Troy Jackson

President of the Senate

 

The Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House

 

131st Legislature

State House

Augusta, ME 04333

 

Dear President Jackson and Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

Please accept this letter as the report of the findings of the Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety from its review and evaluation of the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Emergency Management Agency pursuant to the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3, Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.

 

Pursuant to the Requirements of the Act, the committee notified the Maine Emergency Management Agency by letter of its intent to review the department on May 2, 2023. The department submitted its evaluation report November 1, 2023 and presented the report to the committee on January 30, 2024. The committee held a work session on March 5, 2024 to discuss the report.

 

The committee has reviewed the report and finds the Maine Emergency Management Agency is operating within its statutory authority and meets all criteria under the Act.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Senator Pinny Beebe-Center

Senate Chair

 

S/Representative Suzanne Salisbury

House Chair

 

_________________________________

 

            (2-3)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 452)

 

STATE OF MAINE

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE

COMMITTEE ON HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES

 

March 14, 2024

 

The Honorable Troy D. Jackson

President of the Senate

 

The Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House

 

131st Legislature

State House

Augusta, ME 04333

 

Dear President Jackson and Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

Please accept this letter as the report of the Joint Standing Committee on Insurance and Financial Services from its review and evaluation of the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation under the State Government Evaluation Act, Title 3 Maine Revised Statutes, chapter 35.  The committee finds that the Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection, Bureau of Financial Institutions, Bureau of Insurance, Office of Securities and Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation within the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation are operating within their statutory authority. The review of the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation is done in conjunction with the Joint Standing Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business and we defer to that committee with respect to any findings related to the portions of the Department under their jurisdiction and oversight.

 

As a result of our review, the committee has recommended that the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation develop legislation for consideration in the 132nd Legislature to provide authority to the staff of each licensing board to determine whether complaints that do not address violations of the board’s laws or rules or are outside the board’s jurisdiction may be resolved informally without presentation to the licensing board. The committee has also recommended that the Office of Professional and Occupational develop legislation for consideration in the 132nd Legislature, in consultation with the Board of Dental Practice and interested parties, to establish a separate Board of Dental Hygiene.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Sen. Donna A. Bailey

Senate Chair

 

S/Rep. Anne C. Perry

House Chair

 

 

_________________________________

 

            (2-4)  The Following Communication: (H.C. 453)

 

STATE OF MAINE

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

SPEAKER'S OFFICE

AUGUSTA, MAINE  04333-0002

 

March 19, 2024

 

Honorable Robert B. Hunt

Clerk of the House

2 State House Station

Augusta, Maine  04333

 

Dear Clerk Hunt:

 

Please be advised that pursuant to her authority, Governor Janet T. Mills has nominated the following:

 

on March 15, 2024

 

Ryan Bushey of Houlton, Benjamin Waxman of Westbrook and Abraham Furth of Old Town for appointment and Adria O. Horn of Pittston, Alec Rodman Rogers of Manchester and Vaughan Woodruff of Pittsfield for reappointment to the State Workforce Board.

Pursuant to Title 26 MRSA §2006, these appointments and reappointments are contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing.

 

Kelly H. Bickmore of Cape Elizabeth for appointment to the Gambling Control Board.

Pursuant to Title 8, MRSA §1002, this appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs

 

The Honorable Maria A. Woodman of Monmouth and the Honorable Daniel J. Mitchell of Scarborough as Justices of the Maine Superior Court.

Pursuant to Article V, Part First, §8, of the Maine Constitution, these appointments are contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary.

 

The Honorable Michael Duddy, Jeffrey B. Wilson, Esq. and Theodore H. Irwin, Jr., Esq. as Judges of the Maine District Court.

Pursuant to Article V, Part First, §8, of the Maine Constitution, these nominations are contingent on confirmation by the Maine State Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary.

 

Cedar Breeze Worster of Harrison for appointment to the State Board of Education as a student member.

Pursuant to Title 20-A, MRSA §401, this appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.

 

Barry T. Woods of Harpswell for appointment to the Mid-Coast Regional Redevelopment Authority.

Pursuant to Title 5, MRSA §13083-I, this appointment is contingent on confirmation by the Maine Senate after review by the Joint Standing Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business.

 

Sincerely,

 

S/Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House

 

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

 

            (2-5)  The Following Communication: (S.C. 1007)

 

MAINE SENATE

131ST LEGISLATURE

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

 

March 14, 2024

 

Honorable Rachel Talbot Ross

Speaker of the House

2 State House Station

Augusta, ME 04333-0002

 

Dear Speaker Talbot Ross:

 

In accordance with 3 M.R.S.A. §158 and Joint Rule 506 of the 131st Maine Legislature, please be advised that the Senate today confirmed the following nominations:

 

Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business:

 

·       Jonathan Crasnick of Scarborough for appointment,  to the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority,

 

·       Carolyn Dorsey of Caribou for appointment, to the Loring Development Authority of Maine,

 

·       Jeffrey M. Pangburn of Bangor for appointment, to the Loring Development Authority of Maine,

 

·       Lee Umphrey of Bangor for reappointment, to the Loring Development Authority of Maine.

 

Best Regards,

 

S/Darek M. Grant

Secretary of the Senate

 

_________________________________

 

SPECIAL SENTIMENT CALENDAR

 

            In accordance with House Rule 519 and Joint Rule 213, the following items:

 

Recognizing:

 

            (5-1)  Mia Neal, of Enfield, a senior at Penobscot Valley High School, who is a recipient of a 2024 Principal's Award for outstanding academic achievement and citizenship, sponsored by the Maine Principals' Association.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1566)

 

 

            (5-2)  Samuel Coleman, of Wells, a senior at Wells High School, who is a recipient of a 2024 Principal's Award for outstanding academic achievement and citizenship, sponsored by the Maine Principals' Association.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1567)

 

 

            (5-3)  the Wells High School Wrestling Team, which won the Class B State Championship, the team's second state title in two years and their sixth out of the last seven years the state championship has been held.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1568)

 

 

            (5-4)  Nolan Potter, of Wells, a member of the Wells High School Wrestling Team, who won the Class B State Championship in the 220-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1569)

 

 

            (5-5)  Michael Wrigley, of Wells, a member of the Wells High School Wrestling Team, who won the Class B State Championship in the 195-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1570)

            (5-6)  Hannah Perro, of North Berwick, who won the Maine State Girls Wrestling Championship in the 100-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1571)

 

 

            (5-7)  the Noble High School Girls Wrestling Team, of North Berwick, the first team to win the Maine State Girls Wrestling Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1572)

 

 

            (5-8)  Delaney Frost, of North Berwick, who won the Maine State Girls Wrestling Championship in the 120-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1573)

 

 

            (5-9)  Lilou Gardien, of North Berwick, who won the Maine State Girls Wrestling Championship in the 126-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1574)

 

 

            (5-10)  Anna Strynar, of North Berwick, who won the Maine State Girls Wrestling Championship in the 132-pound Weight Class.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1575)

 

 

            (5-11)  Mandy Sumner, of North Berwick, a professional freediver, who set a new world record swimming under ice for 75 meters.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(SLS 1576)

            (5-12)  Wyman's of Maine, headquartered in Milbridge, on the occasion of the company's 150th Anniversary.  Known for its wild blueberries, Wyman's of Maine was founded by Jasper Wyman and Son in Milbridge in 1874.  Today, the company offers wild blueberries in many forms and other fruits from around the world in blends of frozen fruit.  The brand has become the top selling brand of frozen fruit in retail grocery stores in the United States, and the 3-pound bag of wild blueberries is available in grocery store freezer aisles in all 50 states.  Wyman's grows, processes and serves clients for more than 485 wild blueberry farmers and 41 partner farms globally.  Fourth generation family-owned Wyman's has offices and farms throughout Midcoast and Downeast Maine and the Canadian Maritimes.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 861)

Presented by Representative STROUT of Harrington.

Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington, Representative CARMICHAEL of Greenbush.

 

 

            (5-13)  Anna Elise Weber, of Union, who has earned the distinction of being named Valedictorian of the 2024 graduating class of Medomak Valley High School.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 882)

Presented by Representative PLUECKER of Warren.

Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox.

 

 

            (5-14)  Micaela May Lorentzen, of Union, who has earned the distinction of being named Salutatorian of the 2024 graduating class of Medomak Valley High School.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 883)

Presented by Representative PLUECKER of Warren.

Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox.

 

 

            (5-15)  the Town of Union, which is celebrating its 250th Anniversary.  Union has the oldest public town common in the State, and the Union Common has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2007.  The citizens of Union will be celebrating their town's sestercentennial with a musical depicting the history of the town performed by Union Elementary School students.  They will also uncover a time capsule buried during the town's bicentennial and bury a new time capsule to be uncovered during the town's tricentennial.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 884)

Presented by Representative PLUECKER of Warren.

Cosponsored by Senator BEEBE-CENTER of Knox.

 

 

            (5-16)  Chloe Look, of Addison, who has earned the distinction of being named Valedictorian of the 2024 graduating class of Narraguagus Jr./Sr. High School.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 885)

Presented by Representative STROUT of Harrington.

Cosponsored by Senator MOORE of Washington, Representative CARMICHAEL of Greenbush.

 

 

            (5-17)  Lauren House, of Lincoln, a senior at Mattanawcook Academy, who is a recipient of a 2024 Principal's Award for outstanding academic achievement and citizenship, sponsored by the Maine Principals' Association.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 886)

Presented by Representative GIFFORD of Lincoln.

Cosponsored by Senator TIPPING of Penobscot.

 

 

            (5-18)  Edmond Theriault, of Fort Kent, who is celebrating his 101st birthday on March 22, 2024.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 887)

Presented by Representative THERIAULT of Fort Kent.

Cosponsored by President JACKSON of Aroostook.

 

 

            (5-19)  the Fort Kent Community High School Girls Nordic Ski Team, which won the Class C State Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 888)

Presented by Representative THERIAULT of Fort Kent.

Cosponsored by President JACKSON of Aroostook.

 

 

            (5-20)  Kaden Theriault, of Fort Kent, who won the Class B Giant Slalom Title.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 889)

Presented by Representative THERIAULT of Fort Kent.

Cosponsored by President JACKSON of Aroostook.

 

 

            (5-21)  the Fort Kent Community High School Boys Nordic Ski Team, which won the Class C State Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 890)

Presented by Representative THERIAULT of Fort Kent.

Cosponsored by President JACKSON of Aroostook.

 

 

            (5-22)  Alden Reardon, of Fort Kent, who won the Class C Nordic Skiing State Championship.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 892)

Presented by Representative THERIAULT of Fort Kent.

Cosponsored by President JACKSON of Aroostook.

 

 

            (5-23)  Bruce J. Bossow, Jr., of Waldoboro, a member of Troop No. 254, who has attained the high rank and distinction of Eagle Scout.  This is the highest award in Scouting and is given for excellence in skills development, leadership, personal growth and community service.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 893)

Presented by Representative SIMMONS of Waldoboro.

Cosponsored by Senator RENY of Lincoln.

 

 

            (5-24)  Marie Drinkwater, of Medford, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award.  The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 894)

Presented by Representative PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft.

Cosponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot.

 

 

            (5-25)  the Brownville Fire/EMS Department, recipient of a Spirit of America Foundation Award.  The Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and promote volunteerism, and the foundation presents awards to honor local individuals, organizations or projects in appreciation of community service.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 895)

Presented by Representative PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft.

Cosponsored by Senator GUERIN of Penobscot.

 

 

            (5-26)  Michael Tracy, of Oakland, who is retiring as Chief at the Oakland Police Department after 43 years of public service.  We extend our congratulations and best wishes;

 

(HLS 896)

Presented by Representative NUTTING of Oakland.

Cosponsored by Senator LaFOUNTAIN of Kennebec.

 

 

In Memory of:

 

            (5-27)  Holly M. Clary, of Hallowell.  Mrs. Clary worked as a licensed social worker for the State of Maine at the Augusta State Hospital, later known as Augusta Mental Health Institute and Riverview Psychiatric Center, for nearly 50 years.  Mrs. Clary will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family and friends and community;

 

(SLS 1577)

 

 

            (5-28)  Elizabeth Fitzgerald, of Kennebunkport.  Mrs. Fitzgerald worked as a realtor and had a distinguished career, earning many awards and accolades.  A dedicated community builder, she fervently supported Kennebunkport businesses.  Her involvement in local initiatives was a testament to her commitment to the well-being of her community.  Mrs. Fitzgerald will be long remembered and sadly missed by her family and friends and all those whose lives she touched;

 

(HLS 891)

Presented by Representative GERE of Kennebunkport.

Cosponsored by Senator RAFFERTY of York.

 

 

 

 

_________________________________

 

REPORTS OF COMMITTEE

 

Refer to the Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services
Pursuant to Public Law

 

            (6-1)  Report of the Joint Standing Committee on Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services on Bill "An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Task Force to Evaluate the Impact of Facility Fees on Patients to Improve Facility Fee Transparency and Notification and to Prohibit Facility Fees for Certain Services"

(S.P. 987)  (L.D. 2271)

 

            Reporting that it be REFERRED to the Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES pursuant to Public Law 2023, chapter 410, section 2.

 

            Comes from the Senate with the Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill REFERREDto the Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Divided Report

 

            (6-2)  Majority Report of the Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-824) on Bill "An Act to Provide Safe, Short-term Housing to Individuals Recently Released from Correctional Facilities"

(H.P. 969)  (L.D. 1514)

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    BEEBE-CENTER of Knox

            Representatives:
                                    SALISBURY of Westbrook
                                    HASENFUS of Readfield
                                    LAJOIE of Lewiston
                                    LOOKNER of Portland
                                    MATHIESON of Kittery
                                    MILLIKEN of Blue Hill

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    HARRINGTON of York

            Representatives:
                                    ARDELL of Monticello
                                    NEWMAN of Belgrade
                                    NUTTING of Oakland
                                    PERKINS of Dover-Foxcroft

_________________________________

 

            (6-3)  Majority Report of the Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICESreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(H-823) on Bill "An Act to Create an Advocacy and Complaint Process for Health Care Providers Within the Bureau of Insurance"

(H.P. 953)  (L.D. 1498)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    BAILEY of York
                                    RENY of Lincoln

            Representatives:
                                    PERRY of Calais
                                    ARFORD of Brunswick
                                    CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham
                                    CYRWAY of Albion
                                    MASTRACCIO of Sanford
                                    MATHIESON of Kittery
                                    NUTTING of Oakland
                                    PRINGLE of Windham

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    BRAKEY of Androscoggin

            Representatives:
                                    MORRIS of Turner
                                    SWALLOW of Houlton

_________________________________

 

            (6-4)  Majority Report of the Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICESreporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A"(H-822) on Bill "An Act to Improve the Licensing Procedure for Certain Social Workers by Removing the Examination Requirement"

(H.P. 1273)  (L.D. 1990)

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    BAILEY of York

            Representatives:
                                    PERRY of Calais
                                    ARFORD of Brunswick
                                    CLUCHEY of Bowdoinham
                                    MASTRACCIO of Sanford
                                    MATHIESON of Kittery
                                    PRINGLE of Windham

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Representatives:
                                    CYRWAY of Albion
                                    MORRIS of Turner
                                    NUTTING of Oakland
                                    SWALLOW of Houlton

_________________________________

 

            (6-5)  Majority Report of the Committee on JUDICIARY reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-831) on Bill "An Act to Reduce Rental Housing Costs by Eliminating Additional Fees at or Prior to the Commencement of Tenancy"

(H.P. 945)  (L.D. 1490)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    CARNEY of Cumberland
                                    BAILEY of York

            Representatives:
                                    MOONEN of Portland
                                    KUHN of Falmouth
                                    LEE of Auburn
                                    MORIARTY of Cumberland
                                    SHEEHAN of Biddeford

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    BRAKEY of Androscoggin

            Representatives:
                                    ANDREWS of Paris
                                    HAGGAN of Hampden
                                    HENDERSON of Rumford
                                    POIRIER of Skowhegan

_________________________________

 

            (6-6)  Majority Report of the Committee on LABOR AND HOUSING reporting Ought Not to Pass on Bill "An Act to Exempt Seasonal Volunteer Ski Patrollers and Seasonal Volunteer Ski Ambassadors and Hosts at Ski Areas from the Minimum Wage Laws"

(H.P. 1373)  (L.D. 2149)

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    TIPPING of Penobscot

            Representatives:
                                    ROEDER of Bangor
                                    BRADSTREET of Vassalboro
                                    DRINKWATER of Milford
                                    GEIGER of Rockland
                                    GERE of Kennebunkport
                                    MALON of Biddeford
                                    RUSSELL of Verona Island
                                    SKOLD of Portland
                                    SOBOLESKI of Phillips

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-829) on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Senator:
                                    POULIOT of Kennebec

_________________________________

 

            (6-7)  Majority Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-830) on Bill "An Act to Amend the State's Data Governance Program Regarding Proprietary Data"

(H.P. 1252)  (L.D. 1948)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    NANGLE of Cumberland
                                    BALDACCI of Penobscot
                                    LYFORD of Penobscot

            Representatives:
                                    STOVER of Boothbay
                                    ABDI of Lewiston
                                    COPELAND of Saco
                                    DHALAC of South Portland
                                    GREENWOOD of Wales
                                    POMERLEAU of Standish
                                    RISEMAN of Harrison
                                    SINCLAIR of Bath

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Representatives:
                                    ADAMS of Lebanon
                                    UNDERWOOD of Presque Isle

_________________________________

 

            (6-8)  Majority Report of the Committee on TAXATION reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-832) on Bill "An Act to Amend the Content of Notices Provided with Respect to Tax Liens on Certain Property"

(H.P. 1310)  (L.D. 2048)

            Signed:

            Senators:
                                    GROHOSKI of Hancock
                                    CHIPMAN of Cumberland
                                    LIBBY of Cumberland

            Representatives:
                                    PERRY of Bangor
                                    CARMICHAEL of Greenbush
                                    CROCKETT of Portland
                                    HASENFUS of Readfield
                                    LAVIGNE of Berwick
                                    MATLACK of St. George
                                    QUINT of Hodgdon
                                    RANA of Bangor
                                    RUDNICKI of Fairfield

            Minority Report of the same Committee reporting Ought Not to Pass on same Bill.

 

            Signed:

            Representative:
                                    LIBBY of Auburn

_________________________________

 

 

CONSENT CALENDAR

 

First Day

 

            In accordance with House Rule 519, the following items appeared on the Consent Calendar for the First Day:

 

            (7-1)  (H.P. 193)  (L.D. 295) Bill "An Act Regarding Plastic Pollution"  Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-825)

 

            (7-2)  (H.P. 1164)  (L.D. 1832) Bill "An Act to Require Reimbursement of Fees for Treatment Rendered by Public and Private Ambulance Services" (EMERGENCY)  Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-826)

 

            (7-3)  (H.P. 1350)  (L.D. 2126) Bill "An Act Relating to Delegation of Nursing Activities and Tasks to Unlicensed Assistive Personnel by Registered Professional Nurses"  Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-827)

 

            (7-4)  (H.P. 1359)  (L.D. 2135) Resolve, to Investigate and Address Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Services Issues (EMERGENCY)  Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-828)

 

            (7-5)  (H.P. 1414)  (L.D. 2207) Bill "An Act to Establish Municipal Cost Components for Unorganized Territory Services to Be Rendered in Fiscal Year 2024-25"(EMERGENCY)  Committee on TAXATION reporting Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-833)

 

_________________________________

 

ENACTORS

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-1)  An Act to Fund Rural Patrol Services in Androscoggin County

(S.P. 902)  (L.D. 2109)
(C. "A" S-564)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-2)  Resolve, to Require the Department of Health and Human Services to Report on Children's Residential Treatment Services and Implementation of the Department's Strategic Priorities for Children's Behavioral Health Services

(H.P. 268)  (L.D. 435)
(C. "A" H-816)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-3)  Resolve, to Establish a Task Force to Study Sharing the Costs of Training First Responders Among Governmental Entities

(H.P. 905)  (L.D. 1409)
(C. "A" H-814)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

 Emergency Measure

 

            (10-4)  Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 26: Producer Margins, a Major Substantive Rule of the Maine Milk Commission

(H.P. 1402)  (L.D. 2188)
(C. "A" H-810)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Emergency Measure

 

            (10-5)  Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 80:  Reduction of Toxics in Packaging, a Late-filed Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Environmental Protection

(H.P. 1428)  (L.D. 2227)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  This being an emergency measure, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

 

 

Emergency Mandate

 

            (10-6)  An Act Regarding the Reporting of Adult Name Changes by the Probate Courts to the State Bureau of Identification

(S.P. 305)  (L.D. 747)
(C. "A" S-559)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.  In accordance with the provisions of Section 21 of Article IX of the Constitution, a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the House necessary.

 

_________________________________

Acts

 

            (10-7)  An Act to Adopt an Interstate Compact to Elect the President of the United States by National Popular Vote

(H.P. 1023)  (L.D. 1578)
(C. "A" H-792)

 

            (10-8)  An Act to Protect a Patient's Access to Affordable Health Care with Timely Access to Health Care Prices

(H.P. 1119)  (L.D. 1740)
(C. "A" H-819)

 

            (10-9)  An Act to Establish the Office of Tribal-State Affairs

(H.P. 1166)  (L.D. 1834)
(C. "A" H-809)

 

            (10-10)  An Act to Enact the Safe Cosmetics Act

(H.P. 1224)  (L.D. 1908)
(H. "A" H-818 to C. "A" H-781)

 

            (10-11)  An Act to Make Changes to the State's Marine Resources Laws

(S.P. 859)  (L.D. 2031)
(C. "A" S-558)

 

            (10-12)  An Act Regarding Disclosure of Flood Risk by Sellers of Real Estate

(S.P. 863)  (L.D. 2035)
(C. "A" S-566)

 

            (10-13)  An Act to Amend Maine's Aquaculture Leasing Laws

(H.P. 1327)  (L.D. 2065)
(C. "A" H-815)

 

            (10-14)  An Act to Exempt from Excise Tax Vehicles of Active Duty Service Members Deployed Out-of-state

(H.P. 1335)  (L.D. 2076)
(C. "A" H-812)

 

            (10-15)  An Act to Strengthen the Historic Property Rehabilitation Tax Credit

(S.P. 899)  (L.D. 2106)
(C. "A" S-567)

 

            (10-16)  An Act to Clarify the Eligibility of an Off-track Betting Facility to Receive Funding

(H.P. 1348)  (L.D. 2124)
(C. "A" H-813)

 

            (10-17)  An Act to Support Extended Learning Opportunities

(H.P. 1355)  (L.D. 2131)

 

            (10-18)  An Act to Allow Equitable Compensation of Certain Board Members

(H.P. 1376)  (L.D. 2152)
(C. "A" H-808)

 

            (10-19)  An Act to Make Corrections and Updates to the Laws Affecting Children and Families

(H.P. 1378)  (L.D. 2154)

 

            (10-20)  An Act to Authorize the Provision of Emergency Medical Treatment for Certain Dogs

(H.P. 1380)  (L.D. 2156)
(C. "A" H-820)

 

            (10-21)  An Act to Improve Access to Affordable Wireless Communications by Allowing the Public Utilities Commission to Designate Eligible Telecommunications Carriers

(S.P. 932)  (L.D. 2193)
(C. "A" S-562)

 

            (10-22)  An Act Establishing a State Calendar for the State of Maine

(H.P. 1425)  (L.D. 2222)

 

            (10-23)  An Act to Require Telephone Solicitors to Use the Reassigned Numbers Database

(H.P. 1433)  (L.D. 2234)

 

            (10-24)  An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Department of the Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles' Motor Vehicle Dealer Display Area and Licensing Requirements Working Group

(S.P. 966)  (L.D. 2244)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.

 

_________________________________

Resolves

 

            (10-25)  Resolve, Directing the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Marine Resources to Enter into a Memorandum of Understanding to Address Aquatic Invasive Species

(S.P. 418)  (L.D. 1049)
(C. "A" S-563)

 

            (10-26)  Resolve, to Review and Evaluate Film Production Incentives

(S.P. 444)  (L.D. 1075)
(C. "A" S-569)

 

            (10-27)  Resolve, to Study Opportunities and Provide Guidance for School Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Programs

(S.P. 638)  (L.D. 1606)
(C. "A" S-570)

 

            (10-28)  Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Improve Tenant-Landlord Relationships and Maximize the Use of Housing Vouchers

(H.P. 1099)  (L.D. 1710)
(C. "A" H-821)

 

            (10-29)  Resolve, to Direct the Department of Health and Human Services to Explore the Feasibility of an Ambulance Service Assessment Fee

(S.P. 696)  (L.D. 1751)
(C. "A" S-573)

 

            (10-30)  Resolve, Directing an Analysis of and Report on the Maine New Markets Capital Investment Program

(S.P. 808)  (L.D. 1974)
(C. "A" S-568)

 

            (10-31)  Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Chapter 9: Rules Governing Administrative Civil Money Penalties for Labor Law Violations, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Standards

(H.P. 1398)  (L.D. 2184)
(S. "A" S-572)

 

            (10-32)  Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 41: Special Restrictions on Pesticide Use, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Board of Pesticides Control

(H.P. 1403)  (L.D. 2189)
(C. "A" H-776; H. "A" H-785)

 

 

            Reported by the Committee on Engrossed Bills as truly and strictly engrossed.

 

_________________________________

 

 

ORDERS OF THE DAY

HOUSE CALENDAR
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2024

 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

 

            The following matters, in the consideration of which the House was engaged at the time of adjournment, have preference in the Orders of the Day and continue with such preference until disposed of as provided by House Rule 502.

 

 

1.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (8) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-31) - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES on RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Establish a Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment

(H.P. 575)  (L.D. 928)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - April 12, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative GRAMLICH of Old Orchard Beach.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

2.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-373) - Minority (6) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on ENERGY, UTILITIES AND TECHNOLOGYon Bill "An Act to Direct the Public Utilities Commission to Seek Informational Bids Regarding Small Modular Nuclear Reactors in the State"

(H.P. 1001)  (L.D. 1549)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 8, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative ZEIGLER of Montville.

PENDING - Motion of same Representative to ACCEPT the Minority OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report.

 

 

 

 

3.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A"(5) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-502)- Report "B" (5) Ought to Pass - Report "C" (3) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (H-503) - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Define the Term 'Solitary Confinement' for the Laws Governing a Jail or Correctional Facility"

(H.P. 681)  (L.D. 1086)

 

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 14, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

4.         SENATE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A" (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-397) - Report "B" (4) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (S-398) - Report "C"(2) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES on Bill "An Act to End the Sale of Flavored Tobacco Products"

(S.P. 496)  (L.D. 1215)

 

- In Senate, Report "A" OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED READ and ACCEPTEDand the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-397).

- CARRIED OVER to any special or regular session, of the 131st Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order S.P. 847 on July 26, 2023.

TABLED - June 23, 2023 (Till Later Today) by Representative MEYER of Eliot.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

5.         Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Anna Oliver, of Hodgdon

(SLS 1291)

 

- In Senate, READ and PASSED.

TABLED - January 11, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative QUINT of Hodgdon.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

6.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-731) - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Restore Firearm Rights and Hunting Privileges to Persons Previously Convicted of Certain Nonviolent Felony Crimes"

(H.P. 1006)  (L.D. 1561)

 

TABLED - January 30, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

7.         HOUSE DIVIDED REPORT - Report "A"(7) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-758)- Report "B" (4) Ought Not to Pass - Report "C" (1) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "B" (H-759) - Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY on Bill "An Act to Expand the State's Workforce by Supporting the Transition from Incarceration to Employment"

(H.P. 578)  (L.D. 931)

 

TABLED - February 21, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative SALISBURY of Westbrook.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF ANY REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

8.         Bill "An Act to Prohibit Certain Municipalities from Adopting Moratoria on Emergency Shelters"

(H.P. 1370)  (L.D. 2146)

 

- In House, Majority (8) OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTREAD and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (H-760) on February 22, 2024.

- In Senate, Minority (5) OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report of the Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT READand ACCEPTED in NON-CONCURRENCE.

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative TERRY of Gorham.

PENDING - FURTHER CONSIDERATION.

 

 

 

 

 

9.         Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Isaac Keresey, of Pittsfield

(HLS 766)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

 

10.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Sam Gerrie, of Pittsfield

(HLS 767)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

11.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Gabrielle Finelli, of Pittsfield

(HLS 768)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

 

12.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Amya Braley, of Pittsfield

(HLS 769)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

 

13.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Heather Nelson, of Pittsfield

(HLS 770)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

 

14.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing the Maine Central Institute Indoor Track Team, of Pittsfield

(HLS 771)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

15.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Keith Cook, of Burnham

(HLS 772)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

 

16.       An Act to Prohibit Unauthorized Paramilitary Training

(H.P. 1354)  (L.D. 2130)
(C. "A" H-757)

 

TABLED - February 29, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative TERRY of Gorham.

PENDING - PASSAGE TO BE ENACTED. (Roll Call Ordered)

 

 

 

 

 

17.       HOUSE REPORT - Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-799) - Committee on HEALTH COVERAGE, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES on Bill "An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Optometrists"

(H.P. 1258)  (L.D. 1956)

 

TABLED - March 5, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative PERRY of Calais.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF COMMITTEE REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

18.       Expression of Legislative Sentiment Recognizing Colleen Adams, of Sanford

(HLS 788)

 

TABLED - March 6, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative MASTRACCIO of Sanford.

PENDING - PASSAGE.

 

 

 

 

19.       SENATE DIVIDED REPORT - Majority (8) Ought to Pass as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-560) - Minority (5) Ought Not to Pass - Committee on STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTon Bill "An Act to Support Municipalities by Repealing the Law Limiting the Municipal Property Tax Levy" (EMERGENCY)

(S.P. 895)  (L.D. 2102)

 

- In Senate, Majority OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED Report READ and ACCEPTED and the Bill PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY COMMITTEE AMENDMENT "A" (S-560).

TABLED - March 14, 2024 (Till Later Today) by Representative TERRY of Gorham.

PENDING - ACCEPTANCE OF EITHER REPORT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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STATUTORY ADJOURNMENT DATE April 17, 2024