This year began like most others, but it wasn’t long before we had to confront a challenge unlike any we have seen in more than 100 years. None of us have experienced a pandemic of this magnitude. There are no easy answers for any of the challenges we’re facing. This public health crisis has caused us to forgo social activities, upended our daily routines, created more work at home, and caused significant economic distress. This is not to mention the hundreds of thousands who have either become ill or died from the virus. Maine’s infection rate is among the lowest in the nation, and it’s because of the cautious approach leaders have urged as we figure out how to live with this virus.
Maine’s approach to re-opening businesses has been one of the success stories, in that it hasn’t led to a spike in cases, hospitalizations or deaths. But it hasn’t been without challenges. The impact on our economy has been significant. It’s heartbreaking to hear about hometown businesses struggling or closing. These businesses are owned by and employ our friends and neighbors. It’s also difficult to get a call from a friend or neighbor who’s struggling because they’re out of work.
However, being able to assist folks in need is one of the most fulfilling parts of our job. Over the last three months, we have been working with countless constituents to resolve their unemployment claims and help them find the resources they need to get by. We’re constantly working with the Department of Labor to resolve stalled or hung-up cases. Maine’s troubled unemployment system was unprepared for this kind of event. Legislation is being prepared to address the systemic problems we discovered this spring.
Even though the Legislature adjourned early in March, our work didn’t stop. On top of helping constituents, many committees have begun to meet again, with social-distancing protocols, of course. We’re committed to working with other state agencies to chart a path forward and get feedback from Mainers about where aid is most needed. The Legislature is exploring returning in August for a special session to finish the work we left off in March, and pass measures to help the people of Maine.
When the economy effectively shuttered in March, many businesses in Gorham and across the state struggled to remain open; they have continued to struggle even though restrictions have slowly been lifted. We’ve heard from business owners about the process, and we’ve been committed to helping them find solutions for their individual challenges. We’ve found that they all have the same goal: to reopen in a way that keeps both their workers and their customers safe. Last month, as Junction Bowl and MyFit24 were contemplating their re-opening, we asked Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development Heather Johnson, to come to Gorham to speak with us about the importance of individualized re-opening plans for businesses. Commissioner Johnson spent several hours talking with business owners and helped them come up with plans to re-open safely.
There is no playbook for this pandemic, and the process has been far from perfect. There is no question, however, that our diligence has saved lives. It will take us all working together and sharing ideas to get through this pandemic. Much of the work of a legislator is not taking votes in the State House, but advocating for constituents who need help. So even if we’re not in Augusta, we want you to know that we’re still here, working for you, your family, and your business. If you have questions, concerns or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling 287-1515 or 287-1430. We are always here to help you.