Senator Rafferty introduces bill to support environmental education in Maine

AUGUSTA — On April 25, 2025, Sen. Joe Rafferty, D-Kennebunk, introduced LD 1543, “An Act to Establish the Maine Green Schools Network,” during a public hearing for the bill in the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs. The bill aims to enhance environmental education and sustainability in Maine public schools.

“Throughout my years in the classroom and on the field, I have witnessed the power of student-driven initiatives, hands-on learning and the deep connection Maine students feel to their communities and the natural world,” said Sen. Rafferty. “This bill builds off that energy and uplifts the incredible work already being done by our teachers and students to make schools greener, more efficient and more engaging. This is not a top-down mandate — it is an opportunity. A voluntary network that opens doors for schools that want to lead, learn and share.”

LD 1543 establishes the Maine Green Schools Network within the Department of Education to support environmental education and initiatives in public schools. Under the bill, the DOE would administer the network, which will include various relevant stakeholders and government officials.

The network would be responsible for supporting professional development and school projects; increasing the number of educators in the State who provide training for green schools; and for developing common resources, trainings and metrics to support educators. It also authorizes the Department to develop a grant program to support the network in fulfilling its duties and requires them to report back to the Legislature with findings and recommendations. 

The bill awaits further action in committee.

Sen. Rafferty represents Senate District 34, which includes Berwick, Cape Porpoise, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, North Berwick and Wells in York County.