Legislative Priorities

• Sustainable Economic Growth. New industries with high-paying jobs are required in Downeast Maine. To bring them here, the cost of energy will have to be reduced. The infra-structure, roads, telecommunications and broadband internet access will all have to be brought up to 21st Century standards. And, most importantly, a well-educated, highly skilled, and motivated workforce will have to be made available.  
• Educational Opportunities. Every Maine citizen, male, female, child or adult, should be given every opportunity to achieve his or her maximum potential. 

• Affordable Health Care. Over the past several years, the rising costs of health care and the decline in access to health coverage have negatively impacted the living standards of all Maine working families. Dirigo Choice is an ideal solution to this problem.

• Protecting Maine’s Environment. Economic growth does not have to occur at the expense of the environment.  Maine’s rugged natural beauty must not be compromised. Access to the coast, the lakes and forests must be protected and preserved.
• Lower Property Taxes.  While the Maine circuit breaker program (the Property Tax and Rent Refund Program), as improved by passage of  LD1, has provided some property tax relief for low-income households, there are still inequities for those Mainers with water-front property. Low-income residents of Downeast Maine should not be forced to move when construction of expensive nearby second homes cause a dramatic increase in property taxes.