Gov. Mills signs LaFountain bill to strengthen Kennebec County emergency communications into law

AUGUSTA – On Thursday, June 15, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law a bill from Sen. Dave LaFountain, D-Winslow. LD 1828, “An Act Regarding Enhanced 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Points,” will help ensure that emergency response services are readily accessible and responsive to residents of Kennebec County. 

LD 1828 is a solution to the emergency situation that was created by the short notice decision of Somerset County Communications Center to not serve the towns and cities of Kennebec County. These towns will be without a Public Safety Answering Point come July 1, and this law restores the Waterville Communications Center to serve the affected communities.

“With the July 1 deadline looming, I’m glad the Governor signed this necessary legislation into law,” said Sen. LaFountain. “Residents in the affected areas need to know 9-1-1 dispatchers will answer and provide service immediately when they call, and this law will ensure that. After spending half my life in public safety, I know how important this issue is. I’m proud of this result for the folks of Senate District 16 and Kennebec County.”

“This new law reinforces our commitment to the people of Kennebec County, ensuring that when they call 9-1-1 their calls are promptly answered,” said Sen. Craig Hickman, D-Winthrop. “Kennebec County residents can have confidence that when they reach out for help, assistance will arrive in a timely manner, fostering a sense of security within our community.”

Multiple stakeholders testified in support of this new law, including Waterville Police Chief William Bonney and Acting E-9-1-1 Council Chair Kevin Chabot.