Rep. Heidi Sampson

Maddy summaryThis bill provides $7.5 million in one-time funding to the Department of Education to pay for special instruction in private preschools for children with special needs. The funds are specifically designated for children receiving medically necessary therapeutic services under the MaineCare program. The money will be distributed at a rate of $125 per day per child until a new daily tuition rate established by state law is fully implemented. Additionally, the bill requires the State Controller to withhold the transfer if the Commissioner of Education has already notified them that the new tuition rate is in effect.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new minimum hourly wage for educational technicians and other hourly-paid school support staff in Maine public schools. Starting in the 2024-25 school year, these workers would earn 200% and 150% respectively of the state's minimum hourly wage for other employees, with automatic increases tied to future state wage adjustments. The state would fully fund the initial wage increase for two years, while the Department of Education must collect data on current wages to incorporate these rates into the state's funding model.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Maine Department of Education to submit a report by January 15, 2025, on best practices for school internet and student data collection. The report must evaluate whether schools are using proper filtering software and ensure that student information is not shared with external search engines or tracking applications. To support this effort, the bill allocates $5,000 in state funds for the fiscal year 2024-25 to cover the costs of preparing the report.

Maddy summaryThis bill allocates $1,830,000 from the state's General Fund to provide one-time funding for sexual assault services. The money will be transferred by the State Controller by June 30, 2025, and managed by the Department of Health and Human Services. These funds are intended to support purchased social services for victims of sexual assault.

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.