Rep. Amanda Collamore

Maddy summaryThis bill expands health insurance options for child care providers in Maine by adding them to the state's group health plan. Specifically, it allows employees of the Maine Association for the Education of Young Children and members of that association to qualify for coverage. The change is made by updating the state statutes that list eligible groups for the health plan.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Office of New Americans within the Office of Policy Innovation and the Future to help immigrants integrate into Maine's economy and communities. The office will be led by a director who will hire staff, manage a budget, and report on progress while working with an advisory council of 19 members, including at least 10 immigrants. Key activities include collecting data, coordinating with government agencies, and promoting programs such as English language learning, professional licensure support, and legal services access. The office will also advise state leaders on policies that affect immigrants and provide biennial reports starting in 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends state law to allow the Department of Health and Human Services to pay hospitals for days when MaineCare-eligible patients wait in the hospital before being moved to a nursing facility. The law requires these payments to start on the eleventh day of a patient's stay and sets a yearly spending cap of $500,000 using a specific calculation based on average nursing facility rates. The bill also includes a section that authorizes specific amounts of state and federal money to fund these payments for the fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Maddy summaryThis bill allocates $30,000 from the state's General Fund to the Department of Administrative and Financial Services for installing diaper changing stations in state-owned buildings. The funding is designated as a one-time capital expenditure to support the Bureau of General Services in upgrading public restrooms within government facilities. By providing these specific financial resources, the legislation ensures that state buildings can comply with accessibility requirements for caregivers.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the State of Maine to issue up to $35 million in bonds to fund the completion of a green energy materials building at the University of Maine. The legislation outlines the process for selling these bonds, managing the resulting funds, and ensuring they are used exclusively for the construction project. Before the funds can be spent, the bill must be approved by Maine voters in a statewide referendum held after the law is passed. If approved, the project proceeds under the supervision of the University of Maine System, with any leftover money after construction going toward paying off other state debt.

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.