Sen. Breen appointed to budget-writing Appropriations Committee

AUGUSTA — Sen. Cathy Breen, D-Falmouth, has been appointed by the Senate President to the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, a key position making her the Senate Democrats’ leading voice on the state budget and finances.

Sen. Cathy Breen, D-Falmouth.

“Crafting and passing a responsible budget is the single most important legislative function,” said Sen. Breen. “The budget doesn’t only appropriate funds, though. It establishes the state’s priorities for the next two years. It’s our job on the Appropriations Committee to thoughtfully review all the competing priorities — and there are many — and to synthesize them into a budget that will move our state forward without leaving a single Mainer behind. I’m honored by the trust of my Senate colleagues to serve on this important committee. It’s daunting work, but I know we’re up to the challenge.”

The Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, often referred to as the Budget Committee or simply the Appropriations Committee, is responsible for General Fund appropriations, which comprise the bulk of the biennial state budget, as well as setting general fiscal policy. It also oversees bond issues, the Maine Public Employees Retirement System, collective bargaining funding and federal funds allocations.

Sen. Breen is one of 13 members of the Committee, which will include seven Democrats and six Republicans.

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