What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
Out-of-state homeowners and private companies have bought up too much Maine housing stock for use as short-term rental properties. I would like to see the Legislature create disincentives for the operation of short-term rentals by out-of-state owners, while incentivizing the creation of more affordable rental options for Mainers, by Mainers.
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?
Maine, the nation, and the world need lots of new sources of renewable energy to meet demand while addressing the realities of climate change. At the same time, it’s critical that we don’t look back in 20 years and regret where we chose to site those projects in our rush to deploy new wind and solar. This means focusing development in places that will have the least ecological impact, such as not fragmenting existing habitat corridors, and encouraging planning that centers community voices and needs and delivers benefits for communities most affected. If we move forward both swiftly and thoughtfully, we can build a clean energy future that benefits everyone.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
Currently, someone making $58,050 is taxed at the same rate as someone making $500,000. Last session, in a bipartisan vote, the House and Senate both passed LD 1231, which would have reduced the tax burden on everyone making less than $205,000 and raised it slightly on individuals earning over $500,000. It was revenue neutral and I hoped it would become law, but unfortunately the governor chose to veto it. I’m hopeful that this next term I can continue building bipartisan support for tax reform and make more progress than we did last session.
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?
Among many other tragic effects, the Lewiston shooting shattered the illusion that Maine is immune from mass gun violence. I am proud of the common sense gun safety steps the Legislature took last session, and I believe this is an issue that requires ongoing vigilance and consideration. Groups across the state are working hard every day to address our mental health crisis and last session the legislature made important investments in a number of mental health programs. On gun safety in particular, I would like to see the Legislature look carefully at how the state manages disposal of firearms that have been surrendered or confiscated, and I’m grateful it looks like Maine voters will have an opportunity to vote on a true Red Flag law via referendum.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
Bipartisanship exists in Augusta, but it is often not “sexy” and easy to overlook. Last session, I requested to be seated on the Republican side of the House, which meant I regularly had opportunities to confer with my Republican colleagues. I didn’t have to “reach across the aisle” — I could just lean forward a few feet. As a result of these relationships, I partnered with Republicans on a range of bills that didn’t grab headlines but led to important new laws that help Mainers. Sen. Eric Brakey and I led a successful effort to pass a birth control access expansion that was supported by both Maine Family Planning and the Christian Civic League — no easy feat. This is the mindset I would bring to my work if I am lucky enough to return to the Legislature.
