Sen. Lawrence appointed chair of Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee

AUGUSTA — Sen. Mark Lawrence, D-Eliot, has been appointed to serve as Senate chair of the Joint Standing Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology for the 130th Maine Legislature. The Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee is responsible for bills related to broadband internet, renewable energy development and resources, utilities supply, transmission and distribution, among other topics.

“We have a lot on our plate this year,” said Sen. Lawrence. “While disparities in access to broadband internet connections have been made even more clear during this pandemic, we have also seen good progress in renewable energy development that invests in Maine’s future and creates jobs. During this session, some of our priorities will include working to ensure Maine households have adequate access to the internet and continuing to support Maine’s renewable energy sector.”

Sen. Lawrence also will serve on the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, which is responsible for issues related to law enforcement, first responders, correctional facilities and officers and more.

Lawmakers are assigned to committees by the presiding officers based on their interests, experience and professional background. Joint standing committees are composed of three senators and ten representatives. The Legislature will reconvene in the new year.

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