GOV VETOES BILL TO PROTECT FUND FOR HEALTHY MAINE

Continues to play politics with people’s health

AUGUSTA—Earlier today, Governor Paul LePage vetoed a measure that would protect the Fund for Healthy Maine.

“From helping smokers quit to supporting new parents, the Fund for Healthy Maine is our primary investment in public health,” said Senator Margaret Craven of Lewiston, the sponsor of the bill. “Keeping people healthy is key to lowering our healthcare costs and strengthening our economy. Investing in public health is an important part of keeping our state healthy and on track.”

The Fund for Healthy Maine was created in 1999 with tobacco settlement money to fund health promotion and prevention programs in Maine. Senator Craven’s measure would have prevented the transfer of funds out of the Fund and into the General Fund.

“For too long, we have been treating the Fund for Healthy Maine like a piggy bank,” added Senator Craven. “This bill will protect the Fund and ensure it is used for health programs, as originally intended.”

The Senate will take up the override of the bill, LD 1232, “An Act To Maintain the Integrity of the Fund for a Healthy Maine,” when it reconvenes on July 9.

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