Tim Nangle: We're building a stronger, safer and more sustainable Maine

By State Senator Tim Nangle

As your state senator, my priority is to make Maine a better place to live, work, and raise a family. We've made meaningful changes this legislative session, focused on ensuring the well-being of our community members and strengthening our collective future. I want to make you aware of a few laws that will be taking effect soon that will benefit our communities in a variety of ways.

State Senator Tim Nangle

Protecting our lakes, rivers and streams is critically important to our health and way of life. That’s why I was glad to support LD 211, designed to protect water quality in areas like the Sebago Lakes Region. Clean water is not just an environmental issue; it's a public health matter. By allowing consumer-owned water utilities to fund land acquisitions that will protect our water resources, we are investing in our collective well-being.

One of the most critical sectors we focused on in this legislative session is Emergency Medical Services (EMS). LD 526 provided significant financial relief to EMS departments across Maine, ensuring they are adequately funded to respond to emergencies. This measure is part of a broader strategy to build a robust EMS infrastructure that meets our community’s needs.

Along with funding ambulance services on the brink, I was also proud to support LD 1701, which will allow the Blue Ribbon Commission on EMS to continue its work. Created in the 130th Legislature, the Commission examines and makes recommendations on the structure, support, and delivery of emergency medical services in Maine. Only by listening to the first responders can we better determine how to effectively and efficiently support and sustain these first responders.

My colleagues and I kept our commitments to working families by making historic investments in the childcare industry. LD 1728 boosted the childcare affordability program and nearly doubles provider stipends to help retain qualified staff. By having a strong childcare industry across Maine, parents can go to work and feel good about the care their children receive.

Additionally, I was proud to support a budget that continued to prioritize the funding for universal free school meals at no added cost to Maine families. From my visits to schools in our district, I can tell you the significant impact a meal can have on a student's ability to learn. Nutrition is directly tied to academic performance, and when a kid has access to a filling, balanced meal, they are better prepared to learn.

Offering universal free meals removes the stigma that comes with free or reduced lunch programs, ensuring that no child feels singled out because of their economic background. It also alleviates pressure on families struggling to make ends meet, ensuring their children receive at least two nutritious meals during the school day at no cost to them.

These are just a few of the things we were able to accomplish, but I encourage you to reach out to me, and I’d be happy to let you know about more we’ve done on the issues of education, tax reform, housing and much more.

The legislation we pass is never created in a vacuum. I'm grateful to the many folks who’ve reached out with their concerns, suggestions, and experiences. Your input shapes my legislative priorities. By working together, we're building a Maine that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

We've achieved a lot this session, but there's always more to do. I'm committed to keeping the lines of communication open. If you have any legislative matters or need assistance, you can reach out at Timothy.Nangle@legislature.maine.gov or call 207-287-1515. For the latest updates, follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/SenatorTimNangle, and sign up for my e-newsletter at mainesenate.org. <