As you likely know, the Trump Administration has announced a proposal to open nearly all U.S. coastal waters to oil and gas drilling, including along the coast of Maine. Our coast is essential to Maine's natural and cultural heritage, critical to our wildlife, our economy, and our daily lives. …
Clean Water
Maine Audubon Testifies in Support of Clean Water
Yesterday, Maine Audubon staff biologist Sarah Haggerty and I testified in support of two important bond bills. LDs 178 and 1510 would support improvements to Maine's wastewater infrastructure and protect water quality for Maine wildlife and people. You can learn more about each bill by reading our …
Proposed Buzzards Bay oil spill settlement good news for Maine loons
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) has announced that they, along with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the State of Rhode Island, have reached a proposed settlement of $13 million with the Bouchard Transportation Company, …
Legislature Fails to Override Governor’s vetoes on LDs 1744 and 1772
Unfortunately, the Legislature has failed to override the Governor's vetoes of the mining bill, LD 1772, that rejects the bad mining rule, and LD 1744, the lakes bill. The good news on mining is that the old rule will stay in place until the Legislature approves a new rule. As for the lakes bill, …
Governor Signs the Water Bond, LD 1455!
The Governor has signed the water bond bill, LD 1455. Now, it goes on the November ballot for voters approval. Thank you to the many people who helped to make this happen. …
Water Bond Passes!
The House and Senate have approved the water bond by a landslide. Last night, in one if it's final actions of this legislative session, the Legislature enacted LD 1455 for $10 million by votes of 126-19 and 30-2. It now goes to the Governor. Please see the previous post for appreciation of those …
Water Bond Update
Good news! The Appropriations Committee announced last night the negotiated $50 million bond package. $10 million of the bond package is to go to the Water Bond. Of this $10 million, $5.4 will be for culverts, $4.2 for upgrades to drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities, and $400,000 …
Ocean Acidification Bill, LD 1602, on Study Table
LD 1602, as amended, is sitting on the Special Study Table, having been approved by both bodies. At the end of the session, all of the study bills are reviewed pending final approval. …
Lakes Bill, LD 1744, Sitting on the Appropriations Table
LD 1744 has been enacted by the House and the Senate has approved it through engrossment. It's not been put onto the Appropriations Table. This happens to bills that have a fiscal note, or cost money. We are hoping that the Appropriations Committee is able to find money for this important bill. …