The second regular session of the 131st Legislature reconvened on Jan. 3, and we are already back into the swing of things. We have over 600 bills to consider before we adjourn in mid-April. There is a lot to get done in such a short period of time, and I am excited to get back to work.
Last year, the Legislature made significant strides to address the challenges facing Mainers. Major successes included passing a bill that further protects the right to abortion, allocating funds from the state’s budget towards housing initiatives and developing laws that promote clean energy. But while we achieved a great deal, there is still much work to be done.
As discussed in my previous column, I am passionate about working on legislation that promotes affordable housing and protects our state’s natural resources and wildlife. The housing shortage in Maine is a statewide crisis that affects both urban and rural areas. It directly impacts not only the health and safety of our fellow neighbors, but also our economy. With stable housing comes a strong workforce. It is important that our housing policies not only promote development, but also take care of our state’s natural resources.
Last year, I introduced two bills that have been carried over to this session, both of which intend to alleviate the housing crisis. The first would streamline project developments by amending the definition of “subdivision” while keeping the review of smaller residential subdivisions at the local level. The second bill would provide more opportunity for housing to be built near public water systems as long as the minimum lot size is 5,000 square feet. If public water is not immediately available, the bill would direct that municipalities allow housing to be built on a minimum lot size of 20,000 square feet to account for the construction of septic tanks and wells. Both measures would support Maine’s housing goals by reducing some of the existing barriers to construction.
This session, I also look forward to continuing my work on the Energy, Utilities and Technology (EUT) Committee. As always, any work that we conduct is rooted in the most up-to-date science. Last session, we passed legislation that combats climate change and advances the development of clean energy projects. From developing offshore wind energy to increasing the state’s goal for energy storage – which is vital in stabilizing the market and supply of electricity – we will continue to prioritize proactive measures that will help protect the planet.
As we continue to work towards a clean energy future, it is important that we do so thoughtfully. Last session, I sponsored a bill that is now law that will recognize and plan for the necessary decommissioning of battery storage systems. The measure is an acknowledgment that renewable energy infrastructure requires thoughtful shepherding through its end-of-life when it is no longer a viable energy source. This session, the EUT Committee will continue to work on legislation that encourages the state to transition away from fossil fuels and towards clean energy in a cost-efficient manner.
I am excited to collaborate with colleagues to further develop measures that will benefit the people of Maine. The timeline for this session is ambitious, but I look forward to all that we can accomplish.
Rep. Jim Boyle, D-Gorham, is serving his second term in the Maine House of Representatives and previously served two years in the Maine State Senate. He is a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee. Contact him at Jim.Boyle@legislature.maine.gov.