I’ve hit the ground running in the first two weeks of the Legislative  session. As many of you know, this is a short session, which means we’ll finish our work by mid-April. There is an urgency in the air around the budget and its ramifications. In this email, I’ll start dissecting the Governor’s proposed supplemental budget.

Community Education Event
Next Wednesday, January 27th at 7pm, Superintendent Dr. Jim Morse will be hosting a public conversation at Deering High School about how the state budget cuts to education will affect Portland schools and our community.

I hope to see you there!

Community Update
On Tuesday, January 12th, I sponsored a resolution recognizing the Greater Portland CA$H Coalition. CA$H is a statewide program that teaches financial literacy and assists individuals with tax preparation.

With tax season coming up, CA$H can help you prepare and file your taxes to make sure you get the most of your money.  For more information,visit http://www.cashgp.org/.

Home Weatherization Grants
Last year, the Legislature passed LD 1485, which created the “Efficiency Maine Trust”. This trust established a single source for residents and businesses to learn about energy efficiency resources. The trust makes it easier to take advantage of programs and incentives designed to help weatherize Maine homes and businesses.

On Friday, January 8th, a new benefit was unveiled that would empower homeowners to weatherize their homes. To qualify for rebates under this program, you must save at least 25% in combined heating and hot water usage.

Dissecting the Supplemental: Education
Most people in Maine are aware that we are faced with a $438 million shortfall in revenue. Governor Baldacci submitted a supplemental budget in December that cuts heavily from education and health and human services and forces additional efficiencies in state government, but does not raise any additional revenue.

The legislature’s role over the next few weeks is to study the Governor’s supplemental budget. Each legislative committee will examine the supplemental budget and make recommendations.

Too often, the public is left out of these important decisions. Therefore, over the next few weeks, I will dissect a different piece of the proposed budget. This week, I’ll start with education.

Closing
While the hours are long and the work is challenging, it’s great to be back in Augusta serving the people of Portland. I’d love to hear from you regarding anything that’s happening in the Legislature or in our community.

-Justin