Laws championed by Sen. Lawrence take effect

AUGUSTA — A series of non-emergency laws sponsored and championed by Sen. Mark Lawrence, D-Eliot, that support Maine children, seniors, families and small businesses, took effect Monday, Oct. 18. Highlights include new laws to promote and study the use of renewable energy sources, provide property tax relief, expand access to quality child care and ban corporate contributions to political candidates.

“I am incredibly proud of all the work we did this session and excited to see these non-emergency laws go into effect,” said Sen. Lawrence. “These laws will have a serious impact on Mainers, our environment and the future of our state. I look forward to seeing how these laws transform Maine over the coming years, including the expansion of our renewable energy resources and industry.”

As chair of the Legislature’s Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology, Sen. Lawrence spent much of this session working to pass new laws that promote the renewable energy sector and create good-paying jobs while protecting our heritage industries. 

This year, lawmakers also made good on long-standing commitments to Maine people and municipalities. Lawmakers funded K-12 education at 55 percent for the first time since Maine voters mandated it at the ballot box in 2004 and signed off on a plan to fully restore revenue sharing by 2023. Finally, Maine lawmakers voted to send $300 as a hazard bonus to eligible Maine workers who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic.

All non-emergency laws take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die unless otherwise specified.