Governor LePage Submits State of the State in Writing to the 127th Legislature

02/08/2016 01:00 PM EST

AUGUSTA - Following the historical tradition of sending a gubernatorial address to the Legislature in writing, Governor Paul R. LePage today delivered his State of the State in written form to all members of the 127th Legislature.

In the eight-page State of the State, the Governor details his top priorities and urges the Legislature to work with him so they can move Maine much more quickly from poverty to prosperity. He also calls on lawmakers to focus on the heroin epidemic that is killing Mainers every week.

"As you know, I have chosen to forego the pomp and circumstance of a live speech so we can spend our time and energy on what truly matters: getting work done for the Maine people," the Governor wrote to the Legislature. "I've talked to thousands of Maine people in the past five years. They want us to work to reduce their tax burden, reform welfare so it benefits the truly needy, lower electricity rates so employers can create jobs, find ways to keep our young people here and eradicate the drug crisis that is ravaging our state."

Governor LePage also asked Mainers to pay attention to who they elect in November to represent them. "To the Maine people, I say this: If you want to improve our economy, if you truly want to prosper, then you have to change the culture in Augusta," the Governor wrote. "Vote for those candidates who will work for you. Hold them accountable; demand their attention."

 

TO READ GOVERNOR PAUL LEPAGE'S 2016 STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS,

IN IT'S ENTIRETY, CLICK THE LINK BELOW:

http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbXNpZD0mYXVpZD0mbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTYwMjA4LjU0OTExMzUxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE2MDIwOC41NDkxMTM1MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2Nzk5MDM2JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGViYW5vbnRydXRoc2Vla2Vyc0Bob3RtYWlsLmNvbSZ1c2VyaWQ9bGViYW5vbnRydXRoc2Vla2Vyc0Bob3RtYWlsLmNvbSZ0YXJnZXRpZD0mZmw9JmV4dHJhPU11bHRpdmFyaWF0ZUlkPSYmJg==&&&101&&&http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=669201&an=1

Governor LePage 2016 State of the State Address to be Delivered in Historic Fashion

This year Governor Paul LePage will not deliver his State of the State Address to the Legislature. Instead, he will follow the more historical precedent of sending a written message to the Legislature.

An address to Maine Residents from your Governor...........

Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.
The State of the Union was always delivered as a written message to Congress until President Woodrow Wilson began the modern tradition of delivering it in person to lawmakers.
I would rather talk with Mainers at my town halls. The truth is, I’ve delivered the State of the State to Legislators for five years —only to have it fall on deaf ears.
Last year, socialist legislators wasted more than six months of the taxpayers’ time and money on a political witch hunt. While Mainers were literally dropping dead from the drug crisis, these legislators were grandstanding for the cameras, hoping to score political points by attacking me.
Mainers did not send us to Augusta to play childish games. They sent us here to reform welfare, lower taxes, end the drug epidemic and find ways to keep our young people in Maine.
Mainers want their government to help them prosper and improve our state. That’s why I am bringing the issues directly to the people at my town halls and outlining my vision to make Maine prosperous.
If they truly want to work for the people of Maine, legislators should listen to the people who put them in office in the first place.
My vision is clear: Continue to reform welfare and strengthen the safety net for our most vulnerable; continue to lower taxes for all Mainers so they have more money in their paychecks; reduce energy costs for businesses so we can attract companies with good paying careers. Way too much money is spent on energy costs that could conversely go to wages; address the high cost of student debt that is burdening young people from living and working in Maine; and get tough on drugs by stiffening drug crime penalties, as well as cutting off the deadly drug supply by arresting traffickers who are crossing into our state.
The State of the State is about a long-term vision. Rather than deliver to Mainers once a year, I will continue to bring it directly to Maine people every week.
Thank you for listening.

Maine Department of Health and Human Services Outlines Changes to ASPIRE Program

 

 

 

AUGUSTA - In the Department of Health and Human Services' continued effort to help families achieve independence, the state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and ASPIRE program is set to undergo some important changes this year.

The changes will create a more streamlined system to help families, provide one-on-one assistance and allow them to find employment more effectively and efficiently. The services offered by the program will be intensely focused on moving TANF/ASPIRE families toward self-sufficiency and out of poverty.

Currently, Maine's TANF program faces nearly $29 million in federal penalties because benefit recipients have not met required federal TANF work participation rates over several years, dating back to 2007. This issue must be addressed with aggressive action steps. The LePage Administration introduced legislation twice over the past two years to solve this problem by eliminating exceptions in state law to the federal work participation requirement, but members of the Democratic Party denied that solution both times.

Beginning in mid-2016, the Department will contract with a partner who will support family and employment services through technology, innovation and collaboration with established business and community partners. The Office for Family Independence will continue to determine eligibility and issue support services as well as other administrative duties. The contracted partner will be determined through a formal Request for Proposal process set to begin this month.

Other states have taken similar action and found success within the first year. Under the new model, TANF/ASPIRE families will receive comprehensive assessments, job readiness training and development, transportation and other support services, along with immediate engagement from a dedicated case management team.

In August, the Department received a letter from the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) informing the state that it would need to pay the first penalty of the $29 million currently assessed. The amount totaled $1.16 million and will need to be paid with state funds. The letter is the first of its kind sent to Maine and demonstrates the real financial liability associated with continued failure to meet the federal work requirements.

"Despite repeated failures by the legislature to address this problem with law changes, we are moving forward with this reform. The $29 million in looming federal penalties can no longer be ignored, and our clients must be provided with the best service available to help them get back to work. The Department looks forward to the positive changes coming to the program and what it means for TANF/ASPIRE families working toward a life of independence," explained DHHS Commissioner Mary Mayhew.

The Department has operated the program with diligence within the current rule structure and system to address performance in this program. The Department has determined the necessary step is to add significant resources to engage clients one-on-one with education, skill-building and work readiness activities.

$250,000 in Agricultural Development Grants Announced by Commissioner Walt Whitcomb

 

AUGUSTA CIVIC CENTER – Commissioner Walt Whitcomb announced eight (8) Agricultural Development Grant Program awards totaling nearly $250,000 at the Maine Agricultural Trades Show today. The projects address needs in the agricultural industry for development of livestock processing; improved utilization and profitability of Maine grown crops; product enhancements for nutrition and/or food safety; and alternative markets or diversification including merchandising, farm stands, rural tours and educational opportunities.

“Maine has the most farms and the greatest diversity of food production in New England,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “The potential to produce and sell Maine products is even greater when you consider Maine’s reputation for quality and the growing interest in locally grown foods. The investments being announced today strengthen Maine agriculture and will help farmers and producers realize their full economic potential.” 

Commissioner Walt Whitcomb highlighted the efforts of the review committee and its careful selection of projects from dozens of competitive applications.

“Selected proposals incorporated one or more of four priorities: development of livestock processing; improved utilization and profitability of Maine grown crops; product enhancements for nutrition and/or food safety; and alternative markets or diversification including merchandising, farm stands, rural tours and educational opportunities,” said Whitcomb. “We congratulate the grantees and look forward to successful implementation of their projects.”

The preliminary selections were chosen by a review committee from 30 qualified proposals submitted in response to a formal Request For Proposals (RFP). Out of the total thirty (30) qualified proposals received and reviewed by a committee in a competitive review process, eight (8) projects have been tentatively identified pending approval by the State of Maine Purchases Division and the successful completion of a State of Maine contract. These projects have been identified as:

• Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (Wiscasset) - Ethnic Produce: Crop Diversification for Maine Farmers to Reach New Markets
• Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine (Orono) - 2016 Wild Blueberry Metro Marketing Program
• Lakeside Family Farm (Newport) - Farm-to-Workplace: Bringing More Maine Food to Maine People
• Bartlettyarns, Inc. (Harmony) - Commercial Wool Baler
• Apple Ridge Farms, Inc. (Appleton) - New Technology Vinegar Acetator
• Aroostook Hops, LLC (Westfield) - Creating a hop pelletizing facility to produce Maine-grown and pelletized hops
• Appleton Creamery (Appleton) - Appleton Cheese Trail
• LaJoie Growers, LLC (Van Buren) - Diversifying Farm Products with Cold Storage Capacity

Agricultural Development Grant Program

In 2014, the Legislature approved Department language that improved access to the Agricultural Development Fund. The Department identified the agricultural industry need for accelerating new market development, adoption of improved technology and promotion of agricultural products produced in Maine.  

The Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry may allocate the grant funds among projects involving market research, market promotion, or a combination of those activities for the purpose of expanding existing markets and developing new markets for agricultural products produced in Maine; or for testing and demonstrating new technologies related to the production, storage or processing of State agricultural products.

It is anticipated that another Agricultural Development Fund RFP will be released in the future.

Governor LePage Issues Emergency Declaration to Assist Mainers to Keep Warm

01/13/2016 02:39 PM EST

 AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage has signed an Emergency Proclamation allowing Maine fuel transport and delivery trucks to drive additional hours to ensure timely heating fuel deliveries during the cold winter weather.

"The declaration allows heating fuel to be delivered to Maine families when they need it most," Governor LePage said. "Keeping homes warm is critical to protect the public health and safety of Mainers."

Heating fuel and bulk petroleum products in Maine continue to be in great demand due to a number of factors, including cold winter weather and regional and national storage and supply issues. Much of the heating fuels and bulk petroleum products are being delivered from outside of the State of Maine, which adds to the delivery time.

The Governor's proclamation waives U.S. Department of Transportation rules and extends the hours of service for heating fuel transport and delivery trucks within the State of Maine through February 11, 2016.

The Declaration language is as follows:

Governor's Emergency Proclamation for US-DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Hours of Service Waiver

WHEREAS, heating fuel and bulk petroleum products in Maine continue to be in great demand due to a number of factors, including cold winter weather; and

WHEREAS, much of the heating fuels and bulk petroleum products are being delivered from outside of the State of Maine, adding to delivery time; and

WHEREAS, homes and businesses alike are impacted; and

WHEREAS, federal motor carrier safety regulations determine the number of hours the drivers of heating fuel and bulk petroleum delivery and transport vehicles may operate; and

WHEREAS, many drivers in the State will shortly be approaching their federal limit on hours of operation and may have to cease delivery of heating fuel and bulk petroleum fuels; and

WHEREAS, these conditions threaten essential public health and safety services and endanger public property if heating fuels and bulk petroleum products cannot be transported or delivered within the State of Maine; and

WHEREAS, the declaration of a State of Emergency will facilitate the granting of a waiver from the U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, pursuant to 49 CFR part 390.23 to allow relief from 49 CFR parts 390 through 399, specifically 49 CFR part 395 Hours of Service of Drivers, and subject to the limitations described below, and therefore allow heating fuels, specifically fuel oil, propane and natural gas delivery and transport drivers to operate additional hours; and

WHEREAS, motor carriers that are not directly supporting fuel delivery in the State of Maine, or that have an Out-Of-Service Order in effect may not take advantage of the relief from regulation that such a declaration provides under 49 CFR 390.23,

NOW THEREFORE, I, Paul R. LePage, Governor of the State of Maine, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of Maine, find that these conditions constitute a civil emergency under 37-B M.R.S.A. section 742, and for the purpose pursuant to 49 CFR part 390.23 of facilitating a waiver to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, specifically 49 CFR part 395 Hours of Service of Drivers, do hereby declare that a State of Emergency within Maine for heating fuel and bulk petroleum delivery drivers as of January 12, 2016 through February 11, 2016.

Pursuant to this declaration, I hereby order the following:

1. No motor carrier operating under the terms of this emergency declaration shall require or allow an ill or fatigued driver to operate a motor vehicle. A driver who notifies a motor carrier that he or she needs immediate rest shall be given a least ten (10) consecutive hours off-duty before the driver is required to return to service.

2. Drivers operating under this proclamation shall carry a copy of the proclamation with them as evidence of their direct support to the State of Maine during this emergency period.

Paul R. LePage Governor

Maine Office of Tourism Awards $110,000 in Enterprise Marketing Grants

01/13/2016 10:39 AM EST

AUGUSTA - The Maine Office of Tourism (MOT) has awarded over $110,000 in Enterprise Marketing Grants and Special Event Marketing Grants to 12 applicants through the MOT's Maine Tourism Marketing Partner Program.

The Tourism Enterprise Marketing Grants program was established in 2014 to support the tourism-related projects of smaller organizations with funding that can help them grow or launch new initiatives. Grants are reviewed and awarded biannually, and range from $2,500-$10,000.

"These grants will help connect visitors to some of Maine's distinctive experiences, and expand awareness of the diversity of these adventure, culinary, cultural and retail experiences throughout the state," said Carolann Ouellette, director of the Maine Office of Tourism.

Projects supported in the fall 2015 grant cycle are:

Shop Second Saturday, Retail Association of Maine- $10,000 - Funds will support video creation and paid advertising on broadcast, digital and social media to attract visitors to Maine each month for a weekend of specials statewide.

Emerge Film Festival - $5,750 - 2016 is the second year for this well-organized Lewiston/Auburn -based festival. Funds will expand efforts to reach a broader Maine and out-of-state market and build visitation during Maine's "shoulder season" in April.

Acadia National Park Centennial, Friends of Acadia - $6,600 - Funds will expand promotion of this year long, world-welcoming celebration and once-in-a-lifetime event that will attract visitors nationally and globally, in coordination with the National Park Service 100th anniversary celebration in 2016.

Freeport USA - $10,000 - The grant will help fund the creation of a series of 30-second YouTube videos to showcase the experiences Freeport has to offer to a younger market through social media.

Maine Fiberarts - $5,000 - Maine Fiberarts promotes a statewide network of fiber artists, crafters and farms. Funds will support the production and distribution of Fiberarts Trip Itinerary Cards.

Maine Science Festival - $6,000 - This well-attended festival offers free admission and attracts families to the Bangor area during the shoulder season in late March. Funding will provide assets to reach the tech-savvy participants through social media.

Maine Island Trail Association - $3,500 - Funds will support digital advertising to attract out-of-state boaters to the MITA website, and promote awareness of the Trail App download for exploring Maine's 375-mile recreational coastal waterway.

Maine Whoopie Pie Festival - $5,000 - Celebrating Maine's official snack, this Dover-Foxcroft -based festival will promote a Whoopie Pie Trail through bakeries and the surrounding community with printed materials, radio ads, and social media.

Rangeley Lake Chamber - $5,000 - Funds will support an upgrade to the Chamber website to a responsive, mobile-friendly site, readily accessible to the four-season travelers to the Rangeley Lakes area.

Orrington Old Home Week - $2,650 - This summer festival celebrates Orrington's heritage with a wide range of activities in the Orrington and Bucksport area. Funds will support local broadcast and digital marketing, attracting visitors in the local market and enhancing the visitor experience.

Sanford International Film Festival - $9,200 - The Sanford International Film Festival provides a platform for the works of budding independent filmmakers. Funding will support an online campaign reaching a very targeted film-going audience.

Special Event Marketing Grants are designed to provide support to existing, well-established events with a broad impact on the state economy to help expand their audience. A fall 2015 Special Event Grant has been awarded to:

Maine Craft Weekend - $42,500 - Funds will support the promotion of this statewide tour of Maine craft studios, breweries, shops and events for October 2016.

The next Enterprise Marketing Grant and Special Event Marketing Grant cycle will be in Spring 2016, with applications due in May. For more information about the MOT Maine Tourism Marketing Partnership Program call Phil Savignano at 207-624-9809, or visit http://visitmaine.com/mtmpp/

Secretary of State Dunlap discusses impact of REAL ID implementation on Maine travelers

01/11/2016 03:57 PM EST

AUGUSTA - Travelers can continue to use their Maine driver's licenses as identification to board airplanes through the next two years, Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announced Monday, following a recent statement by the federal Department of Homeland Security.

The DHS is entering the final phase of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed in 2005 that seeks to improve the security standards for state-issued identification. Beginning on Jan. 22, 2018, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be required for air travelers to board a commercial domestic flight. Those with drivers licenses issued from a state that is not REAL ID-compliant and has not received a deadline extension from DHS will have to provide an acceptable alternative form of identification, as listed on the DHS website at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification .

Currently, the State of Maine is not REAL ID-compliant, but has received multiple annual extensions to fully comply with the Act, the most recent of which will expire in October 2016. Thus, Maine driver's licenses will continue to serve as acceptable identification for air travel until the Jan. 22, 2018 deadline - and possibly beyond that time, should Maine receive additional extensions.

According to the DHS, 23 states are now fully compliant with the REAL ID Act. Maine is one of 27 states that have received extensions for demonstrating steps toward compliance. Six states and territories - Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Washington, and American Samoa - are noncompliant and do not currently have extensions.

The DHS is encouraging states to become compliant with REAL ID in the next few years, since extensions will no longer be granted as of Oct. 1, 2020.

The State of Maine Legislature has voted against several provisions of the REAL ID Act, so a law change would be necessary to reach full compliance. Travelers are encouraged to check the REAL ID compliance status of the State of Maine on the DHS website at http://www.dhs.gov/real-id-enforcement-brief .

Governor LePage to Hold Press Conference Today Regarding Recent Statements on Maine's Drug Crisis

AUGUSTA— Governor Paul R. LePage will hold a news conference at 10:00 AM in the Cabinet Room to discuss his recent remarks regarding Maine’s drug crisis.
When: Friday, January 08, 2016, 10:00 AM
Where: Cabinet Room, State House, Augusta

Governor Nominates Col. Douglas A. Farnham for Maine's Adjutant General.

12/29/2015 01:46 PM EST

 

 

AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage announced today he has nominated Colonel Douglas A. Farnham as Adjutant General, the supreme military officer of the state and Commissioner of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management (DVEM).

For the past three years, Col. Farnham has been the Wing Commander of the 101st Air Refueling Wing in Bangor, known as the "MAINEiacs." A graduate of Brewer High School and the United States Air Force Academy, he holds an MBA from Chapman University and has 31 years of military service.

Commissioned in 1984 as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, he served as primary pilot for CINC U.S. Space Command, a C-21A pilot, a flight examiner and ground school instructor for pilots of C-21, C-12 and C-9 aircraft. As a pilot of a KC-135E aerial refueling aircraft in the Air Guard, he was activated for Operation Noble Eagle, a mission to support homeland security in response to the September 11 attacks. He also served as a KC-135 evaluator pilot, full-time Air Guard technician, 132nd Air Refueling Squadron Operations Officer, Chief of Wing Plans.

In 2005-06, Colonel Farnham served as commander of 132nd Air Refueling Squadron. From 2006-12, he served as Operation Group Commander, 101st Air Refueling Wing, then from 2012 to present as Wing Commander, 101st Air Refueling Wing.

He is also president and fourth-generation owner of Getchell Bros. Inc., a family-owned packaged ice company in business since 1888, and has been active in local civic organizations.

"The next Adjutant General will serve at an important time for Maine airmen and soldiers," Farnham stated. "Shrinking national resources are putting intense pressure on future Department of Defense budgets. As we've seen, the entire relationship between the active duty force structure and the reserve components is and will continue to be under debate. Our Adjutant General needs to be engaged at the national level to insure Maine is part of the discussion on emerging missions and force structure."

Governor LePage had first nominated acting Adjutant General Brigadier General Gerard F. Bolduc to serve as the permanent Adjutant General, but Brig. General Bolduc withdrew his name from consideration. He will continue to serve until the new Adjutant General is confirmed.

Governor LePage Announces 2016 Maine Judicial Nominees

12/24/2015 12:23 PM EST

AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage announced today judicial nominations of three lawyers to serve in Maine District Court. Selected are Charles F. Budd Jr, Cynthia Montgomery and Thomas Nale Sr.

Charles F. Budd Jr. is a partner at Rudman Winchell who focuses his practice on criminal law, divorce and child custody, family law and personal injury law. Prior to law school, Budd worked for a member of Congress in Washington, D.C. and later for Massachusetts Governor William Weld. Prior to joining Rudman Winchell, he worked for the Boston law firm of Hill & Barlow.

 

 Budd was born in Toronto, Ontario. A graduate of Dartmouth College and Boston College, he graduated cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center, where he served as an editor of The Tax Lawyer, an ABA publication. He now resides in Bangor. Cynthia Montgomery has served as Chief Counsel since February 2015 in the Office of the Governor.

A native of Texas, Cynthia Montgomery is a graduate of Georgia State University, where she also received her law degree in 1994. She served as a union representative and in-house counsel for the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local 623 from 1989 to 1995. In her private practice, she successfully litigated discrimination actions against several urban governments and multiple national and international companies.

 

 Recognizing public service as her true calling, Montgomery worked as a trial attorney for the EEOC, representing the federal government in discrimination actions in Georgia federal courts. After relocating to Maine in 2002, she worked as EEO/ADA Coordinator for Maine DHHS. In 2003, she accepted a position in the Bureau of Employee Relations as a Labor Relations Specialist, then Counsel in 2006 and was promoted to the position of Chief Counsel in 2011.

Montgomery lives in Palermo with her former opposing counsel, who is now her life partner.

Attorney Thomas Nale Sr., of Nale & Nale Law Offices, has been practicing law since he was admitted to the Maine Bar in 1979. He is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire School of Law and Thomas College. Nale specializes in divorce, family matters and litigation. With over 35 years of litigation experience, he has tried cases before the Maine District Court, Maine Superior Court, Maine Supreme Court and the United States District Court for the District of Maine.

 

 He is a member of the Maine State Bar Association and the Waterville Bar Association, where he serves as vice president. Nale served as the Mayor of Waterville from 1986-1987. He is a former President and Treasurer of the Waterville Bar Association and is a life-long resident of the Waterville area.

Maine Governor Nominates Cabinet-Level Positions, Commissioner of Maine Department of Education and Commissioner of Department of Environmental Protection.

12/22/2015 02:35 PM EST

Earlier today, Governor LePage notified the chair of the Maine State Board of Education, Martha Harris, of his decision to nominate Dr. William Beardsley to be Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education (DOE), pending that 10-member board's evaluation of the candidate. Dr. Beardsley serves currently as Acting Commissioner and has previously served as Commissioner for the Maine Department of Conservation.

While most gubernatorial commissioner appointments go directly to the legislative committee of jurisdiction, Maine statute requires the State Board of Education, which Dr. Beardsley served on until October 2015, have an opportunity to meet and interview the Governor's nomination for Education Commissioner.

 Beardsley served as President and CEO of Husson University for 22 years and also served on and has chaired numerous boards, including the Maine Development Foundation, Finance Authority of Maine, Maine Higher Education Council, Maine Independent College Association and Maine Development Foundation. Most recently, he served on the Maine State Board of Education and on the Maine Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Council.

Beardsley earned his bachelor's degree in economics from Earlham College in Indiana and his doctorate from Johns Hopkins University. He completed the Harvard Institute for Educational Management Program.

Governor LePage also nominated Paul Mercer as the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Mercer has worked at Maine Maritime Academy since 2006 and has held positions as Associate Professor and Department Chair within the Engineering Department. At the Academy, he has also served as a member of the senior leadership team as the Assistant to the President for Sustainability, where he led the recent Strategic Planning process, among other efforts. Mercer has used this role to promote innovation and environmental initiatives at the Academy.

 Mercer has an extensive background in environmental issues. He has worked with renewable energy development, solid fuels and biomass energy systems throughout the United States and Canada. This included acting as the lead developer of an energy project resulting in a 50 percent reduction of emissions at the Bucksport paper mill.

Additionally, Mercer was president of Northeast Engineering in Bucksport from 1983 until 2008. The company provided a full range of consulting services to the power generation field, as well as project development of waste wood, biofuels, de-inking and wood products facilities. He also served as president of Bay Engineering from 1978 until 1982.

Mercer earned a bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering from Maine Maritime Academy.

Five Judges Sworn in by Governor LePage

12/07/2015 10:42 AM EST

 AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage today administered the oath of two magistrates and two lawyers as District Court Judges and a Superior Court Justice as an Active Retired Justice for the Maine Superior Court.

The Hon. Maria A. Woodman, Esq. and the Hon. Paul D. Mathews, Esq. will serve as District Court Judges, as will Jed J. French, Esq., a managing law partner in a private firm, and Michael P. Roberts, Esq., a deputy district attorney.

Superior Court Justice Paul A. Fritzsche will serve as an Active Retired Justice for the Superior Court.

"As Governor, I have the utmost respect for those serving in the Judicial Branch," said Governor LePage. "In choosing judges, my focus is on the qualifications, demeanor and integrity of the candidates. These respected professionals reflect those priorities. I am confident they will live up to the high standards we expect from Maine judges."

The Governor's nominees represent a wide and diverse geographic area of Maine. They come from Kennebunk, Yarmouth, Monmouth, New Castle and Bangor.

Justice Paul A. Fritzsche, of Kennebunk, has served as a Superior Court Justice for 29 years. He was also a Public Advocate from 1983 to 1986, representing consumers before the Public Utilities Commission, courts, the Legislature and federal agencies. He also served from 1975 to 1981 as staff attorney and directing attorney for Pine Tree Legal Assistance in Lewiston and Portland. A graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, he earned his law degree at the University of Maine Law School.

The Hon. Paul D. Mathews, Esq., of New Castle, a family law magistrate in the Maine District Court since 1998, served from 1979 to 1981 as Deputy District Attorney in Augusta and from 1981 to 1983 as Assistant District Attorney in Bath. In his private practice, he handled family law matters, criminal defense and trial work in District and Superior Court. He is a graduate of St. Anselm College in Manchester, N.H., attended St. John's College in Santa Fe, N.M. for graduate studies in liberal arts and earned his law degree at Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington.

The Hon. Maria A. Woodman, Esq., of Monmouth, a family law magistrate in the Maine District Court since 2012, served as an Assistant District Attorney from 2003 to 2010 in the Division of Child Support and Maine Care Crimes Unit. From 1999 to 2003, she was an Assistant District Attorney for the Manhattan District Attorney's Office in New York, prosecuting cases ranging from murder to felony drugs. She is a graduate of The George Washington University and American University, Washington College of Law, in Washington, D.C.

Michael P. Roberts, Esq., of Bangor, a deputy district attorney, is a prosecutor with more than 30 years of experience. An experienced drug court prosecutor, he has been with the District Attorney's Office in Bangor since 1983 and is responsible for the case evaluation of all Penobscot County felonies, including arson, manslaughter, robbery, gross sexual assaults, attempted murder and white collar crimes. He is a graduate of the University of Maine and Western New England College, School of Law.

Jed J. French, Esq., of Yarmouth, a managing law partner at Powers & French, P.A. since 1994, has handled cases ranging from unemployment compensation, business dissolution and real estate disputes to felony criminal charges, personal injury and family matters. He is a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Air Force/Air National Guard and has been appointed as arbitrator, referee and special master for 14 courts. From 1988 to 1991, he worked for U.S. Senator William S. Cohen. He is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine and the University of Maine School of Law.

Maine Unemployment Rate 4.3 Percent in October

State Labor Commissioner Jeanne Paquette released October workforce estimates for Maine. Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Data Household Survey Estimates – The preliminary seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 4.3 percent for October was little changed from 4.4 percent in September and down from 5.6 percent one year ago. The unemployment rate was the lowest since 2002. The number of unemployed declined 9,600 over the year to 29,100. The U.S. preliminary unemployment rate of 5.0 percent was little changed from 5.1 percent in September and down from 5.7 percent one year ago. The estimate of the employment to population ratio (age 16 and over) in Maine of 59.6 percent was the lowest in four years. In the years ahead, the share of employed population is likely to gradually trend lower as large numbers of baby boomers retire. The U.S. average was 59.3 percent. The New England unemployment rate averaged 4.6 percent. Rates for other states were 3.3 percent in New Hampshire, 3.7 percent in Vermont, 4.6 percent in Massachusetts, 5.3 percent in Rhode Island, and 5.1 percent in Connecticut. Labor force and unemployment data is available here. Payroll Survey Estimates – The preliminary nonfarm payroll jobs estimate of 611,300 for October was up 5,500 from one year ago. The gain was entirely in the private sector, primarily in the professional and business services, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. The estimate for government was unchanged from one year ago. Nonfarm payroll jobs data is available here. Not Seasonally Adjusted Substate Data The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate estimate of 3.6 percent in October was down from 4.9 percent one year ago. Not seasonally adjusted rates were down over the year in all 16 counties, with the largest decline in Franklin County (-1.8 points). Rates ranged from 2.8 percent in Sagadahoc County to 5.4 percent in Somerset County. The unemployment rate was below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland metro (2.9 percent) and close to the average in Lewiston-Auburn (3.5 percent) and Bangor (3.5 percent). This release is available here. November workforce estimates will be released Friday, December 18 (Data Release Schedule). NOTES: 1. Preliminary labor force estimates, including unemployment and employment to population ratios for Maine, tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (to be published in March 2016) will moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. In addition, the 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates in 2015 has been 0.5 to 0.7 percentage points above or below the published estimate each month. 2. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters and holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing, which can exacerbate monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from October 2014 to September 2015 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2016. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates.

Department of Labor Offering Workplace Safety Classes in December

 

11/20/2015 11:14 AM EST

*Space is available for classes in Augusta*

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout December. Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class.

"By August 2016, the federal government will significantly increase OSHA fines for the first time in 25 years, some by as much as 80 percent," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Our consultants at SafetyWorks! can help businesses and workers identify and address hazards around the worksite. I encourage businesses to take advantage of all SafetyWorks! programs and consultations. The return-on-investment in workplace safety, in quality of life as well as financial, is well worth the effort."

Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees in the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta.

10-Hour Construction Standards: December 2 to 3, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This one-and-a-half-day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

Fire Extinguisher/Emergency Action Plan: December 10, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

In this class, you will learn about Emergency Action Plans as well as various types of fire extinguishers and how to maintain them. This is a hands-on class. Those attending this class should come prepared to discharge a fire extinguisher.

OSHA Recordkeeping: December 11, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This class provides thorough and comprehensive six-hour training for both new and experienced safety and human resources personnel. You will learn the OSHA rule (29 CFR 1904) regarding recording and reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as it applies to your organization. This class includes several hands-on activities on how to correctly fill out the required injury reporting forms.This class will include updates to the OSHA Recordkeeping Standard (29 CFR 1904) which went into effect January 1, 2015.

30-Hour General Industry Standards: December 14 thru 18, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This five-day course introduces attendees new to safety and health to the OSHA standards for general industry (29 CFR 1910). Attendees who complete all five days will receive an OSHA 30-hour general industry course certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., day one through day five.

Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call

1-877-SAFE 345  ~~~ (1-877-723-3345)

or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

Office of Securities Promotes Crowdfunding Opportunity for New or Expanding Businesses in Maine

 

 

 

11/17/2015 02:06 PM EST

Maine Securities Administrator Judith Shaw is highlighting Maine's seed capital formation registration rule, informally known as Fund-ME, and encouraging business owners and those thinking about starting a company to contact the Office of Securities to learn more. The rule, which took effect January 1, 2015, provides a streamlined avenue for small businesses to raise capital while still providing protections for investors.

Fund-ME allows Maine businesses to raise up to $1 million, and generally permits individuals to invest up to $5,000 in each business during a 12-month period. Small businesses and entrepreneurs taking advantage of this new method for raising capital would provide offering documents to potential investors, including a subscription agreement and a completed Fund-ME offering circular.

"Consumers may be familiar with crowdfunding websites. Maine's new rule takes that basic concept of social funding and allows everyday investors to participate directly in the development of a Maine business," Administrator Shaw said.

Crowdfunding legislation has also been enacted at the federal level. The JOBS Act was signed into law in April of 2012 and authorized the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to write federal rules for crowdfunding. Those rules were recently finalized, but Maine and other states moved forward in the interim. Maine's rule should provide a viable alternative for businesses that might not be interested in the federal approach.

Shaw noted that Maine's crowdfunding opportunity works differently than the approach taken by many other states, as it allows businesses to raise money from investors outside of Maine. The new crowdfunding rule, and the documents Maine businesses will need to file with the Office, can be found at www.investors.maine.gov.

Small businesses and consumers are encouraged to contact the Maine Office of Securities with questions regarding Fund-ME at 1-877-624-8551 (toll free in Maine) or (207) 624-8551. Shaw also reminded consumers that the Office of Securities' staff is eager to assist investors before they make any investment decisions. The Office can provide general information about investment professionals and products, including online investment opportunities. More information is available at www.investors.maine.gov.

Maine's Office of Securities is one of five agencies within the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, located in Gardiner, Maine. More information about the Department can be found at www.maine.gov/pfr.

Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap announces recount results for House District 19 (Sanford).

Matthew Harrington wins House District 19 Seat by 14 Votes

Re count of votes confirms original decision.

 

 

11/16/2015 09:35 AM EST

AUGUSTA - Republican candidate Matthew Harrington has been named the winner of the House District 19 seat, based on the results of a ballot recount conducted today, announced Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap.

In the final tabulation of ballots cast, Harrington received 767 votes to Democratic candidate Jean Noon's 754 votes. District 19 covers part of Sanford. A recount of the Nov. 3 election results was requested by Noon after unofficial results from Election Day indicated that she had lost the election by 14 votes, 754 to 768.

In a recount, the representatives of each candidate and staff members from the Department of the Secretary of State manually review each ballot to determine the official vote tally. The recount, which is open to the public, took place at the Maine Department of Public Safety building in Augusta. A date will be determined by the Legislature for Harrington to be sworn into the House of Representatives, prior to the legislative session beginning in January.

Governor LePage and First Lady to Host 5th Annual Blaine House Food Drive

 

11/05/2015 04:17 PM EST

 

 

AUGUSTA - The First Family invites the public to visit the Blaine House once again this year in an effort to help fellow Mainers who are less fortunate. Since Governor Paul R. LePage and First Lady Ann M. LePage began the food drive in 2011, they have collected thousands of pounds of food for pantries and shelters across Maine.

"This provides us an opportunity to open the Blaine House to visitors and share the history of the house while collecting food for those who need a helping hand in our communities," said Governor LePage. "It's important the First Lady and I give back to the people of Maine and this is one of the ways we are able to do that."

This year's food drives will take place on two consecutive Saturdays: November 7 and 14. Mainers will have an opportunity to bring a food donation, get a tour of the Blaine House led by Governor LePage and enjoy light refreshments.

The Good Shepherd Food-Bank will accept all donations brought to the Blaine House. Good Shepherd Food-Bank will determine the communities that need the food most and distribute the donations. Doors will be open at the Blaine House between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. each Saturday.

Veterans Legacy Project Preserves Maine Heroes' Legacies

 

 

 

11/02/2015 10:55 AM EST

   Governor Paul R. LePage and First Lady Ann M. LePage Tuesday will join Bureau of Veterans Services director Adria Horn, veterans and their families to announce the Maine Veterans Legacy Project, a program helping to preserve the living histories of veterans.

The Veterans Legacy Project provides an opportunity for all generations of Maine families to connect with our military heroes, and enables citizens to actively volunteer to protect American history.

The Bureau of Veterans Services created the Maine Veterans Legacy Project with the mission of preserving Maine history by collecting first-person accounts of those who defended the United States during wartime. The Bureau of Veterans Services collaborated with a Maine media partner to film and produce the interviews and the State of Maine Archives will file the interviews, which will be made available to the public for view.

The Office of the Governor and the Bureau of Veterans' Services invite members of the public and the media to learn more about the project on Tuesday, November 3 at 10:00 a.m. in the Hall of Flags.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 3, 2015

WHERE: Hall of Flags, State Capitol Building, Augusta

Maine Governor LePage Highlights Initiative to make Occupational Licensing Easier and Faster for Returning Military Veterans.

Governor and Commissioner Highlight Initiative to Make Occupational Licensing Easier and Faster for Veterans--Assistance Available at November 10th Veterans Licensing Event

10/30/2015 01:50 PM EDT

In advance of Veterans Day, Governor Paul R. LePage and Commissioner Anne Head are highlighting an ongoing initiative at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) to make occupational licensing in several professions quicker and easier for veterans with relevant military training and experience.

Governor LePage signed Public Law Chapter 603 in 2012 to ensure that veterans are given full credit for applicable military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Department's Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. In 2013, the Governor signed Public Law Chapter 311, which builds on the 2012 measure.

"The people of Maine are tremendously grateful to those who have served," Governor LePage said. "We have a responsibility to recognize their skills, and to assist them in obtaining the credentials needed for good jobs. Veterans have much to offer businesses and organizations throughout Maine, and our economy needs their contributions."

These recent new laws provide the Department with greater flexibility in evaluating and crediting military experience toward license and continuing education requirements. It should also assist veterans and spouses by permitting them to acquire a license by endorsement if they hold a comparable license in another state for the remainder of the term of that license or until a license is obtained in Maine.

In addition to more flexibility, the laws signed in 2012 and 2013 have led to a concerted outreach effort by the Department. Staff has been participating in job fairs for veterans and attending meetings of organizations that serve military members, veterans and their families.

The next event will be held November 10, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the Androscoggin Room at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. The Department is located in Gardiner at 76 Northern Avenue. Information or directions can be obtained by calling 207-624-8605.

Additionally, the Department's homepage (www.maine.gov/pfr) features information to assist veterans in applying their military training and experience toward occupational licensing requirements. Details about licensing can also be obtained by calling Catherine Carroll at 207-624-8605.

Veterans are encouraged to contact the Department before applying for licensure. Military documentation that may be needed includes:

Copy of a DD Form 214, Report of Discharge; and

Copy of DD Form 2586, Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET).

"The Department remains fully committed to evaluating and crediting military experience whenever possible and appropriate," Commissioner Head said. "Veterans are encouraged to attend the November 10th event or to contact the Department anytime to learn more about how we can assist them."

Governor Orders Flags To Be Flown At Half-Staff on September 11, 2015

 

 

 

09/11/2015 08:42 AM EDT

AUGUSTA - Governor Paul R. LePage has directed State of Maine flags to half-staff on Friday, September 11, 2015 in honor of the innocent victims, first responders and service members who lost their lives in the tragic terrorist attacks 14 years ago and ensuing conflicts. The United States flag should also be lowered to half-staff.

"It is important to set aside this day of observance recognizing the sacrifices of those who were injured or killed as a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001," said Governor LePage. "Maine salutes these heroes, their families, our nation's first responders, and the dedication of our veterans and current military members. The freedom that we Americans enjoy is so rare for the rest of the world, and it is constantly under threat; we must not abandon it. We must never forget. My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones on this very tragic day."

The President has proclaimed Friday as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance and has ordered the flag of the United States to half-staff in honor of the individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.