Sen. Mark Lawrence statement on York Hospital’s proposed merger with MaineHealth

AUGUSTA — Sen. Mark Lawrence, D-Eliot, today released the following statement in reaction to the announcement by York Hospital that they are seeking to merge with MaineHealth.

“While I am saddened by the news that our local independent hospital — which has served our area very well for over a century — is merging with a larger organization, of all the possible scenarios, this the best option for the people of southern York County,” said Sen. Lawrence. “It’s my sincere hope that the leadership of MaineHealth will rise to meet the unique health care needs of our region. I will fight to see those needs are met.”

“I also hope to work with Health and Human Services Committee Chair Rep. Michele Meyer, along with the Governor other state leaders to ensure a fair and smooth implementation of care services under the new leadership, and stand up to protect the Hospital’s endowment, which continues to serve residents who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford care,” continued Lawrence. “At a time when too many hospitals are closing and health care costs are rising, ensuring continuous, quality care to my constituents and our region is a top priority.”

In 2024, Sen. Lawrence led the legislative effort to defeat a proposed tax increase of roughly $2 million per year. Further, it would’ve added an additional $5 million tax increase after five years. Following negotiations with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Sen. Lawrence and his colleagues, the Legislature defeated this proposal, protecting York Hospital.

York Hospital admits about 2,400 in-patients, receives 17,500 emergency room visits, 51,000 walk-in clinic patients throughout five different locations, performs 3,600 surgical procedures in various areas of care and conducts 16,400 Home Health Care visits. The hospital also provides appointment transportation for thousands of patients annually.

Sen. Lawrence is serving his fourth consecutive term in the Maine Senate and represents Senate District 35, which includes Eliot, Kittery, Ogunquit, South Berwick and York. Sen. Lawrence serves as Senate chair of the Legislature’s Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee.