We are still in session! On Monday, the full legislature heads back to Augusta to finish up any final bills and to hopefully pass a bond package. The closing of this session truly illustrates that democracy can be a messy activity!

Community Event
On Thursday, our great city had the honor of a visit from President Obama to speak about his historic health care reform law. It was wonderful to see him in person, and he gave a great speech. What stood out to me was not only his ability to make fun of himself and the process, but also to share critical parts of our new health care law that will help Mainers starting this year.

After the speech, I attended the groundbreaking of new construction at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. Last year, I asked you to reach out to House and Senate Leadership to encourage them to include money for GMRI in November’s bond. They listened, the voters passed the bond, and construction has started on the bulkhead which will not only expand this important institution, but also will give the Coast Guard a working pier.

Following the groundbreaking, I visited the Florence House. As many of you know, the City of Portland lost a critical housing option for homeless women with the closing of the YWCA in 2007. After more than three years of homeless women sleeping on mats at Preble Street Resource Center, the Florence House opened its doors. I want to congratulate the Board of Preble Street, the Board of Avesta Housing, and all those who supported this important project!

Bonds, bonds, bonds…
On Wednesday around 11:00 pm, the House of Representatives passed an $85 million bond package. The vote was 100-48, surpassing the 2/3rds needed of all those voting. The bond package came to the Senate for its first full debate, needing the support of at least four Republicans. Over the next two hours, bipartisan cooperation fell apart as Republicans stuck firmly to their reduced bond package of $40 million or lower, and my colleagues and I stuck to the $85 million package. With no compromise in sight, we adjourned at 1:00 am until Monday, April 12th at 10:00 am.

Closing
This will be my last email while the Senate is still in session. It has been one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life to serve in the Maine State Senate. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve, and your insights, comments, questions, and support these past 16 months.

-Justin