Maddy summaryThis bill directs the University of Maine System to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of rehabilitation, vocational, and educational programs within the Department of Corrections. The assessment must examine whether these programs provide equal access to all residents regardless of race, gender, or other factors, and determine if they effectively prepare individuals for employment and self-sufficiency upon release. The evaluation process requires the university to consult with a wide range of stakeholders, including corrections officials, formerly incarcerated people, law enforcement, victim advocates, and civil rights organizations. Following the study, the university is required to submit an interim report by March 1, 2025, and a final report by January 1, 2026, which may lead to new legislation to improve correctional programs. The state will provide $175,000 in funding for the fiscal year 2024-25 to support this evaluation effort.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill is a procedural amendment that adds a fiscal note to a separate piece of legislation regarding food insecurity funding. It does not create new policies or change existing laws but serves to include financial details required for the legislative process. The bill directly affects the legislative record by ensuring the funding proposal includes an official cost estimate.
Maddy summaryThis bill changes how the state of Maine collects taxes on adult-use cannabis by switching the payment schedule from monthly to quarterly. It also removes the excise tax on transfers of cannabis between licensed cultivation facilities to prevent double taxation on the same product. The legislation includes an emergency clause to make these changes effective immediately, aiming to help businesses avoid financial strain. Additionally, it allocates a one-time funding amount to cover the computer programming costs needed to implement the new filing schedule.
Maddy summaryThis Maine legislative bill directs the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to hire a consultant to create a catalog of five to eight preapproved building types, such as single-family homes and small multi-unit structures. The consultant must develop these designs to fit local architectural styles and site conditions while ensuring they meet safety codes and include at least one affordable rental option per county. The process requires public engagement through online surveys and feedback sessions, and the project will be funded with $350,000 from the state's general fund. By December 2025, the department must submit a report with recommendations for future laws that would allow municipalities to automatically approve permits for these specific building types in certain areas.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new special retirement plan for employees of the Maine Department of Corrections and related departments who work in correctional facilities or interact with prisoners and offenders. Under the new plan, these workers can retire after completing 25 years of service in their current capacity, regardless of whether that time was earned before or after the plan's creation. The legislation also temporarily extends eligibility for the existing 1998 Special Retirement Plan until September 30, 2024, for certain staff members who were previously covered under different rules. Additionally, the bill includes provisions allowing employees whose positions were moved between departments to keep their original retirement benefits if they meet the requirements of their former plan.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Maine Employee Ownership Center to help businesses transition to employee-owned or cooperative models, offering technical assistance, educational programs, and access to financing. It also establishes a state tax deduction of up to $750,000 for individuals who sell more than half their ownership in a private business that converts into a housing cooperative. These changes are designed to encourage job retention and the development of affordable housing by supporting worker-owned enterprises. The Office of Business Development is tasked with managing these initiatives and collecting data to measure their economic impact.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends an existing outdoor education program to require providers to follow state licensing rules for guides and trip leaders. Specifically, it mandates that anyone leading outdoor school activities in Maine must hold the appropriate licenses for guides, youth camp leaders, or educational trip leaders as defined by state law. The change ensures that all participants in the Outdoor School for All Maine Students Program are supervised by qualified, licensed professionals.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution designates June 28, 2024, as Maine Acadian Day to honor the history and cultural contributions of Acadians and Franco-Americans in the state. The measure acknowledges the legacy of French settlers who established the first European community in Maine and endured the forced deportation of the Acadian people in the 18th century. By officially recognizing this date, the legislature aims to celebrate the significant role these communities play in Maine's heritage, particularly in the Saint John Valley region.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution expresses the Maine legislature's support for strengthening ties between Maine and Taiwan, highlighting their existing trade relationship and shared democratic values. The bill encourages the signing of specific agreements, such as a bilateral trade deal, an income tax agreement, and a driver's license reciprocity pact, while also promoting educational exchanges between the two regions. Additionally, it formally supports Taiwan's participation in international organizations and calls for increased people-to-people interactions. The resolution is intended to be sent to the President, state officials, and Taiwanese leaders to reaffirm the state's commitment to this partnership.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors Representative H. Sawin Millett, Jr. for his long career in public service as he retires from the Maine State Legislature. The bill recognizes his nearly 50 years of legislative work, during which he served multiple terms and held leadership roles on committees focused on finances, government oversight, and education. It also highlights his diverse background in teaching, farming, and various state administrative positions under several governors. The resolution expresses appreciation for his dedication and expertise but does not change any laws or policies.