Rep. Art Bell

Co-sponsor LD 1621

died · Maine House · Co-sponsor

An Act Regarding Environmental Justice

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Maine's environmental laws to remove specific criteria from the definition of environmental justice and allocates state funding to the Department of Environmental Protection. The financial provisions authorize approximately $460,000 in the 2023-24 fiscal year to hire staff, manage technology, and cover costs for facilitator services and meetings. These changes aim to support the department's operations and workforce while adjusting the legal framework for environmental justice initiatives.

died Nov 20, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor LD 1817

Failed · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

An Act To Support Outdoor Education By Establishing The Outdoor School For All Maine Students Program

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.

Failed Nov 20, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor SP 1010

Passed · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

Joint Resolution Recognizing June 28, 2024 As Maine Acadian Day

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.

Passed May 10, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor SP 1009

Passed · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

Joint Resolution To Reaffirm The Friendship Between Maine And Taiwan, Enhance Bilateral Trade Relations With Taiwan And Support Taiwan'S International Participation

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.

Passed May 10, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor HP 1488

Passed · Maine House · Co-sponsor

Joint Resolution Recognizing The Honorable H. Sawin Millett, Jr. For His Public Service To The State

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.

Passed May 10, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor LD 2007

Signed into law · Maine House · Co-sponsor

An Act To Advance Self-Determination For Wabanaki Nations

Signed into law Apr 22, 2024 1 co-sponsor

Co-sponsor LD 2238

Passed · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

An Act To Address Gun Violence In Maine By Requiring A Waiting Period For Certain Firearm Purchases

Passed Apr 17, 2024 1 co-sponsor Track

Co-sponsor LD 2253

Signed into law · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

An Act To Authorize A Stop-Work Order Regarding An Activity That Is Creating A Substantial Adverse Impact To A Protected Natural Resource

Signed into law Apr 12, 2024 1 co-sponsor

Co-sponsor LD 2101

Signed into law · Maine Senate · Co-sponsor

An Act To Strengthen Shoreland Zoning Enforcement

Signed into law Apr 9, 2024 1 co-sponsor

Primary LD 1578

Passed · Maine House · Lead sponsor

An Act To Adopt An Interstate Compact To Elect The President Of The United States By National Popular Vote

Passed Apr 3, 2024 0 co-sponsors Track