After eight remarkable years in office, Dec. 4 marked my final day as a state representative. Looking back, it’s hard to believe my journey in the Legislature has come to an end. Serving as the voice of our community in Augusta has truly been the honor of my life.
When I first decided to run for office, my motivation stemmed from a deep commitment to our friends and neighbors in Gorham. I wanted to advocate for our community’s needs and ensure that our collective voice was heard in the State House. On a personal note, my desire to serve was also fueled by a wish to create a safe and secure environment for my daughters. I envisioned a Maine where they could explore their passions, find meaningful opportunities, and ultimately have the chance to buy a home, raise a family, and grow old here. I am immensely proud of the accomplishments we achieved together and feel privileged to have represented such a caring, passionate, and dynamic community.
Throughout the years, my colleagues and I have worked tirelessly to tackle the issues that matter most to families in Gorham. We have made significant strides in our mission to set future generations up for success. Among our many accomplishments, we passed a bill that I sponsored to create a fully refundable state child tax credit, expanding
the tax credits available for parents and other households with dependents. Another successful measure I was proud to sponsor during my eight years in office helps combat the growing problem of food insecurity in Maine by creating a checkoff provision on Maine income tax forms, which gives taxpayers the option of contributing to the emergency food assistance program. I was also so proud to support legislation establishing Maine’s paid family and medical leave program. These initiatives, along with others, reflect our commitment to improving the quality of life for all Mainers.
However, while I believe we have made meaningful progress on key issues, I recognize that our state still faces significant challenges. The rising cost of living continues to strain families every day, making it increasingly difficult for them to make ends meet. Addressing these pressing concerns will require ongoing dedication and innovative solutions.
As we look to the future, I am aware that Gorham will face numerous challenges in the coming years, especially in light of potentially harmful policies that could come from the federal government. Yet, I want to reassure you that you are in capable hands with the new slate of Gorham legislators serving in Augusta. I am eager to see what they will achieve on behalf of our community.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for the trust and support you have shown me throughout my time as your representative. This job has brought me immense joy, primarily because of the incredible people I have had the honor to serve. Your concerns and aspirations will always matter to me, and I look forward to continuing our shared journey in making Gorham the best it can be. Thank you once again for allowing me to be part of your lives and to serve our community. Together, we can look forward to a bright future for Gorham and all its residents.
Rep. Maureen “Mo” Terry, D-Gorham, is serving her fourth term in the Maine House of Representatives. She is the House Majority Leader, where she serves as head of the Democratic caucus. Outside of her legislative work, Rep. Terry is a chef and small business owner. Contact her at maureen.terry@legislature.maine.gov.