District 8 Legislative Update - June 25th, 2009
June 25, 2009 -
On Saturday, June 13th at 2:16AM, the first session of the 124th legislature adjourned. Since then, it's been great to be back in Portland and active around town.
Emerging Leadership Political Leaders Program
Last week I was selected to participate in the 2009 Program for Emerging Political Leaders at the University of Virginia, Darden School. As one of 50 state legislators chosen, I will examine qualities and characteristics of leadership, including: ethical leadership, the art of compromise and coalition-building, and the philosophical underpinnings of representative democracy.
I am incredibly honored to be chosen, and I look forward to using the skills I learn to better represent and deliver for the district.
GMRI Bond
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute is an amazing asset to Portland, and I am glad to do what I can to earn the Legislature's support. Some of you may remember that, earlier this year, I asked folks in the district to help me by contacting leadership and encouraging them to support a bond to allow GMRI to expand and add more high-paying jobs to the city. Without the funds, GMRI would have lost this opportunity forever.
Well, I am pleased to announce that a $1.5 million bond for GMRI will be included in the bond package this fall. This is a victory not only for GMRI, but also for all of us in Portland, and it couldn't have happened without our district's support.
My Bills - Update
A bill of mine that went under the radar is LD 1062, "An Act To Protect Artists and Art Galleries." This bill was brought to me by a constituent who works extensively with artists. The problem was that many artists are not business-savvy, and in some cases are taken advantage of. The bill looked to create better business practices, and went in front of the Business Research and Economic Development Committee.
The bill would have established standards for art consignment contracts to assist artists, galleries and dealers. It would have required the following basic contractual components: the exclusivity of the relationship, inventory of the artwork, commission structure, insurance, promotion of the artwork, terms of payment, reproduction terms, warranties and transportation responsibilities.
The bill was amended in committee to be a resolution, which means it will not become law, but instead be a voluntary form. LD 1062 was passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor. The form will be developed by stakeholders, including the Department of the Attorney General. It will be posted on the Attorney General's website by January 15, 2010.
Closing
As I close, I want to share my plans now that the session's over. I will keep sending out email updates, return emails and phone calls, and go to events in the district. I will also be reaching out to businesses and non-profits to learn more about what they do and how I can be helpful, and will spend time in Augusta visiting and learning more about different agencies. Finally, I will be serving on at least one education study committee that will look into redefining the role of the State Board of Education.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in the State House this session. I look forward to the summer here in town, and anticipate the beginning of the second session in January.
-Justin
