What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
In large part the housing affordability crisis is a supply issue. While many of the impediments to building housing exist at a local level, at the state level we should do what we can to reduce red tape that increases the cost of and obstructs the expediency of building housing. We should also focus on incentivizing the building of housing close to available jobs. Our housing policy and transportation policy are inseparable, focusing on building housing proximate to multiple modes of transportation is vital and should be a focus of the State’s housing policy.
Transmission lines, solar incentives and offshore wind development have been controversial over the past several years. What steps should Maine take to meet growing demand for electricity?
The rising price of energy and its impact on middle-class Mainers is unacceptable. The legislature must hold utilities to account for their performance and prices. While we should be open to all forms of energy production, there’s little question that reliance on volatile foreign sources of energy is not in our long-term best interest. Clean renewable energy production here in Maine is best for our natural resources, our wallets, and our future.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
In addition to providing $285 million in tax relief to Mainers in the last few years, the 131st Legislature established a child tax credit, increased the Property Tax Fairness Credit for Mainers over the age of 65, and expanded the Property Tax Deferral Program. I’m proud of these accomplishments and believe we should continue to put money back into the pockets of everyday Mainers and make our tax structure fairer.
We are closing in on the one-year anniversary of the Lewiston mass shooting. Are further legislative responses required around guns, mental health, supporting victims and families or other policy areas?
The tragedy in Lewiston was devastating. Constituents and acquaintances of mine died in the tragedy and our entire community has been touched by a pervasive sense of unsafety and unease. I believe the common-sense legislation we passed last session fairly balanced our respect for the rights of Mainers to own fire arms and the public interest in preventing suicide and violent crime. I am open to additional legislation so long as it adequately balances these interests.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
As a new father with a full-time job in addition to my work as a legislator, I’m acutely aware of the shortage of available affordable childcare options. The Legislature must work as hard as possible to make Maine a place where the middle-class can afford to maintain a job and raise a family. I love this state, and want to do everything possible to make it a place where everyone can thrive.
