Governor Janet Mills has officially nominated Sara Gagné-Holmes as the commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services. Gagné-Holmes had been leading the agency on an acting basis after the departure of Jeanne Lambrew. Mills praised Gagné-Holmes for her dedication and experience in improving the lives of Maine people, stating she is the right person for the job.
Gagné-Holmes, who had been the deputy commissioner for five years, emphasized the department’s mission of ensuring health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for Maine people. She acknowledged the progress made by the department but highlighted the need for more work to fully implement these advancements.
All cabinet appointees, including Gagné-Holmes, need confirmation by the state senate, which is controlled by Democrats. Before confirmation, she will go through a hearing before the legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee. Gagné-Holmes has a strong background in health care, having served as a health policy and legal adviser to former Governor John Baldacci before moving into the nonprofit advocacy sector.
Gov. Mills has maintained a stable cabinet throughout her two terms, with Lambrew being the only commissioner to leave the administration. Lambrew announced her departure in May to take on teaching and reform positions in public health organizations. Gagné-Holmes’ formal nomination reflects Mills’ commitment to consistency in her cabinet appointments.
Source
Photo credit www.centralmaine.com