Dear friends and neighbors,
I would like to thank all of you who attended my town hall meeting at Bates Technical College. We had a lively conversation about car tabs, affordable health care, homelessness and K-12 funding. If you were not able to attend, you can always contact me anytime to ask me a question or share your legislative priorities.
Legislative Update
We are at the halfway point of this 105-day legislative session. So far, we have finished hearing bills that originated in the Senate. Senate bills that were voted off the floor are now being heard in House committees. Likewise, we are now considering House bills in Senate committees.
Among the many issues considered this year in the Senate were distracted driving penalties, protecting vulnerable adults and seniors, REAL ID travel requirements, workplace protection for pregnant women, helping our military transition to civilian jobs, and much more.
K-12 Update
The governor has signed two bills so far this session. The most significant was a bill to temporarily allow our school districts to continue to raise money through local levies. This was critical for allowing our school boards and districts to plan next year’s budgets. Keep in mind we are still negotiating a comprehensive, sustainable K-12 funding solution as ordered by the Supreme Court.
What is Next?
The next phase of the Legislature really focuses on the operating, transportation and capital budgets. The Senate’s Republican majority is set to release its budget proposals sometime this week. In response, House Democrats will release their budgets next week. Many of you have contacted me about items you hope to see funded in this year’s budgets; stay tuned as negotiations progress.
Keep in Touch
My office is always here to answer your questions and provide you with information. Please do not hesitate to contact me anytime.
Sincerely,
Sen. Steve Conway
