Laws championed by Sen. Libby take effect

Sen. Libby: “Despite the changes, Maine lawmakers delivered for the people of Maine.” 

AUGUSTA — A series of non-emergency laws, sponsored and championed by Sen. Nate Libby, D-Lewiston, that support Maine children, seniors, families and small businesses, went into effect on Monday, Oct. 18. Highlights include new laws to provide access to lifesaving insulin, provide property tax relief, expand access to quality child care and ban corporate contributions to political candidates. 

“I am no stranger to the Maine Legislature, but it goes without saying that this year was unique in a lot of ways,” said Sen. Libby. “Despite the changes, Maine lawmakers delivered for the people of Maine like they always do. I am excited about a lot of the bills we passed, but in particular, excited about my law to help young people who experience education disruption to stay on track to graduate.”

Laws championed by Sen. Libby this year included proposals to help vulnerable students stay on track to graduate and another to make shared living more accessible for Mainers with disabilities. 

This year, lawmakers also made good on longstanding commitments to Maine people and municipalities. Lawmakers funded K-12 education at 55 percent for the first time since Maine voters mandated at the ballot box in 2004 and signed off on a plan to fully restore revenue sharing by 2023. Maine lawmakers also voted to send $300 as a “hazard bonus” to eligible Maine workers who worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. All non-emergency laws take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die unless otherwise specified.