Maine Lawmakers Advance Comprehensive Budget to Support Health Care and Child Welfare
AUGUSTA, Maine — As the legislative session nears its end, Maine lawmakers have successfully advanced the second part of the biennial budget, following an overnight session earlier this week. The Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee voted to endorse a spending plan that prioritizes significant investments in Maine’s health care, child welfare, and housing needs among other essential initiatives.
This advance follows the approval of a $11.3 billion budget in March, aimed at fulfilling the state’s financial commitments for the next two fiscal years. Senator Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston and chair of the committee, expressed pride in the inclusive approach taken during the budget process, emphasizing that extensive input from experts and the public was considered.
Central to the new budget is a dedicated allocation for MaineCare, which is designed to address a projected funding shortfall. Additionally, reforms to nursing facility rates and enhanced community-based services for older adults, overseen by the Office of Aging and Disability Services, are included to improve care accessibility.
The budget also focuses on children’s welfare with plans to expand staffing for child welfare services and a commitment of $5.9 million for free school meals for all public school students. “This budget directly invests in Maine people who are facing various challenges, including those concerned for aging loved ones and families struggling to make ends meet,” stated Rep. Drew Gattine, D-Westbrook, who serves as the committee’s house chair.
With this part-two budget now moving forward for further legislative consideration, lawmakers are hopeful that these investments will significantly benefit vulnerable populations across the state.
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