- 123rd SECOND SESSION -
LETTER FROM REP. MEREDITH STRANG BURGESS

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DEAR FRIENDS

The 123rd Maine Legislature adjourned on Friday, April 18, 2008. Click here to find details of some of the measures addressed this past session that may be of interest to you.

Earlier in the year, the Legislature passed a supplemental budget that closed a $190 million budget shortfall. I was pleased that my colleagues and I insisted on one that did not include broad-based tax increases, even though some lawmakers wanted a sales tax increase. Unfortunately, a bill to fund the controversial Dirigo Health program will raise taxes on beer, wine and soda, as well as levy a surcharge on health insurance claims. I did not support this measure (LD 2247, House Roll Call #423).

School consolidation sparked much debate as the Education Committee and Legislature struggled to fix last year's law. The new changes include removing some of the financial obstacles and allowing the Commissioner of Education more flexibility in approving reorganization plans. Locally, I am looking forward to the new and exciting opportunities school consolidation presents to our area.

The Legislature also enacted a jail consolidation compromise that will overhaul the county and state correctional systems and create an oversight board that will manage and coordinate operations.

Due to pressure from the federal Department of Homeland Security, the Legislature revised its standards for issuing state driver's licenses and identification cards. Two bills were passed that will require an applicant to be a resident of Maine and be in the United States legally in order to obtain state credentials.

Because I feel it is imperative that Augusta hear from Maine small business owners, I have agreed to run for a second term in the Maine House of Representatives. I will be running as a traditionally funded candidate, meaning that I will need to raise money to support my campaign. I feel strongly that this is the proper way, as it seems hypocritical of me to tell you that I want to save you tax dollars and then turn around and use your hard earned tax dollars to fund my campaign. If you would like to support my efforts, please click here. Thank you for your consideration!

Please contact me if you have any questions or need help with any state issues. I would be happy to help in any way I can. As always, it has been an honor and privilege to serve as your State Representative.

Sincerely,

Rep. Meredith Strang Burgess
State House Representative District 108
Cumberland, Long Island, Chebeague
Island and part of North Yarmouth