Rep. Yusuf Yusuf

Maddy summaryLD 847 prohibits housing discrimination in Maine by banning landlords from refusing to rent or negotiating for rental housing based on a tenant's **source of income**, such as housing vouchers, public assistance, Social Security benefits, or rental subsidies. It also prevents landlords from assessing a tenant's full rent amount when part of the rent is subsidized, requiring financial evaluations to apply only to the unsubsidized portion. The law, effective January 1, 2026, applies to most rental properties (excluding landlords with fewer than four units) and allows victims to seek $1,000 penalties or actual damages for violations. This directly affects renters using government assistance and landlords managing rental housing.

Maddy summaryLD 1123 provides ongoing state funding to establish two Public Service Coordinator positions within the Maine Department of Education. These coordinators will directly assist public school districts in navigating MaineCare (Maine's Medicaid program) reimbursement processes for student health services. The bill allocates $204,172 for the 2025-26 fiscal year and $283,836 for 2026-27 to cover salaries and operational costs for these roles. The key mechanism is creating dedicated staff to provide technical assistance, streamline billing, and improve schools' ability to receive reimbursements for covered health services. This affects all public school districts in Maine that seek MaineCare reimbursement for student health-related services.

Maddy summaryLD 260 is a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to Maine's constitution that would guarantee equal rights under the law for all residents, prohibiting discrimination by the state or local governments based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, ancestry, or national origin. This amendment would directly affect all Maine residents by legally requiring state and local entities to provide equal treatment without regard to these protected characteristics. The resolution requires a statewide referendum in the next November election, where voters would decide whether to adopt the amendment by answering "Yes" or "No" on a ballot. If approved by a majority of voters, the amendment would become part of Maine's constitution, giving the Legislature authority to create enforcing laws.

Maddy summaryLD 1910 requires Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services to contract with community-based nonprofits to hire 9 outreach caseworkers and 9 housing stability workers. These staff will directly assist unhoused individuals - particularly those cycling through shelters, jails, hospitals, or warming centers - to secure permanent housing and access ongoing support services. The bill mandates specific caseload limits (25 intensive cases plus 35 standard cases per worker) and geographic distribution based on where homelessness is most concentrated. It allocates $1.7 million annually for two years ($800,000 for caseworkers, $900,000 for stability workers) to fund these contracts.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Maine to divest public funds - including those managed by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System - from companies, financial institutions, or entities operating in, benefiting from, or associated with countries or governing bodies determined by independent international bodies (like the UN or International Criminal Court) to have committed apartheid, ethnic cleansing, genocide, or war crimes. It mandates full divestment within 12 months of such a determination and directs the Treasurer’s Office to create a commission to monitor human rights reports and submit annual compliance reports to the legislature. Exceptions cover humanitarian aid, food, medicine, and essential supplies, and the Governor may waive divestment to prevent significant harm to Maine residents or protect national security.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution from the Maine Legislature formally recognizes Lunar New Year 2026, which marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse. The bill highlights the historical and cultural significance of the holiday for Asian communities and the broader diaspora, noting that it is celebrated by over a billion people worldwide. It encourages local, state, and national observances as well as educational programs to inform the public about the history and symbolism of the tradition. Additionally, the resolution expresses support for increasing visibility and safety for communities that face marginalization, while reaffirming the state's commitment to its multicultural identity.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution from the Maine Legislature formally recognizes the beginning of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in 2026. It acknowledges that millions of Muslims, including those in Maine, observe this period through fasting and spiritual reflection. The text highlights the contributions of Muslim residents to Maine society, noting their roles in various professions and charitable efforts. The resolution serves as a ceremonial gesture of respect and extends best wishes to Muslims worldwide for their observance.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution officially recognizes February 2026 as Black History Month, marking the 100th anniversary of its inception by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926. The bill does not create new laws or regulations but serves as a formal statement from the Maine legislature to honor the contributions and history of African Americans. It specifically highlights Maine's historical involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, noting that local merchants and shipbuilders were deeply entangled in the global economy of enslavement for over a century. By passing this resolution, state lawmakers aim to encourage residents to learn more about these past experiences and their impact on the development of the state and nation.

Maddy summaryLD 471 establishes a 2-year pilot program at the University of Maine and University of Southern Maine to expand intensive English language learner programs for individuals aged 16+ whose primary language is not English. The program provides financial help for child care, transportation, and living expenses to students who don't qualify for existing aid programs, funds two staff members to assist students with accessing Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits, and requires students to teach English in Maine after completing a master's program. Enrollment is capped at 150 students per semester in year one and 300 in year two, with the University of Maine System required to offer full scholarships for a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages master's program. The program mandates reports on student demographics, employment outcomes, and barriers to success by 2027 and 2028.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution formally recognizes Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a commemorative occasion in Maine, acknowledging the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. The bill directs state legislators to pause their work on January 19, 2026, to honor Dr. King's contributions to civil rights and justice. It does not create new laws or change existing policies but serves as a symbolic gesture to recognize the historical significance of the holiday.