Senator Chipman introduces bill to create a Memorial for COVID-19 victims

AUGUSTA — On Friday, Senator Ben Chipman, D-Portland, introduced a bill that would direct the Legislative Council to fund and design a memorial on State House grounds for COVID-19 victims. LD 1123, “An Act To Authorize a Memorial to the Victims of COVID-19,” was the subject of a public hearing before the Legislature’s State and Local Government Committee.

“COVID-19 has upended our daily lives in ways we could have never imagined just two years ago,” said Sen. Chipman. “Our essential workers have had to work around the clock and put themselves at risk to help others. Grandparents have not been able to see their grandchildren for over a year, missing out on important milestones. Parents have had to grapple with the challenges of remote school for their kids. Because of this deadly virus, so many people have experienced incredible hardship, isolation, and unfortunately, loss, in the past year. We need to honor the people who died after becoming infected with COVID-19. As of April 20, 767 people in Maine have died from the virus. This once in a generation pandemic needs to be properly recognized in the state of Maine. That’s why I’m recommending we create a memorial to the victims of COVID-19.”

Under an amendment proposed by Senator Chipman, LD 1123 would direct the Legislature’s Legislative Council to secure funding and carry out the construction of the memorial on State House grounds.

LD 1123 faces further action in committee.

###