Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1776

Introduced
4/24/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Engrossed
6/5/25  

Caption

An Act to Establish the Interdisciplinary Advisory Board for the State House Complex

Impact

The establishment of this advisory board is a significant step towards formalizing oversight of health and safety conditions within government facilities. It aims to streamline communication between various bodies responsible for managing the State House complex, thereby improving accountability and response to health and safety matters. As the board gathers data, it will be responsible for annually publishing findings and recommendations, informing legislative discussions and potential policy adjustments. This structured approach is likely to enhance state laws related to workplace safety in government buildings.

Summary

LD1776, known as the Act to Establish the Interdisciplinary Advisory Board for the State House Complex, seeks to ensure the occupational health and safety of legislators, legislative staff, and the public within the facilities of the State House complex. The bill establishes a board tasked with advising appropriate authorities on health and safety issues, while also providing mechanisms for individuals to raise concerns and questions about occupational hazards in this setting. This initiative reflects a renewed focus on creating a safe and healthy work environment for all individuals interacting with the State House complex.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD1776 appears to be largely supportive among those who prioritize workplace safety and public health. Advocates for the bill see it as a necessary measure to protect not only legislators and their staff but also the general public visiting the State House. However, there may be skepticism regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the board, particularly concerning how well it can address emergency issues or respond to incidents in a timely manner, which could lead to points of contention in discussions.

Contention

One notable area of contention could arise around the appointment process for the board's members, which is divided between the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House. This structure might lead to political influences impacting health and safety oversight. Additionally, concerns may be raised about how effectively the board can engage with staff and the public to address specific health issues. Lastly, varying opinions on the adequacy of resources allocated for the board's operations may lead to heated discussions, particularly regarding funding and staffing from the Department of Labor.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1819

An Act to Create the Maine Medical Cannabis Advisory Commission and the Medical Cannabis Alternative Health Board

ME LD479

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Membership of the Palliative Care and Quality of Life Interdisciplinary Advisory Council

ME LD1903

Resolve, to Create an Advisory Council to Oversee the Review and Technical Revision of the Maine Criminal Code and Other Statutes Establishing Criminal Offenses

ME LD1867

An Act to Establish the Community Housing Production Program

ME LD2001

Resolve, to Establish the African American and Wabanaki Studies Advisory Council and Provide Funding to Support African American Studies and Wabanaki Studies

ME LD1865

An Act Establishing the Maine Sentencing Guidelines Commission

ME LD2125

An Act to Establish the Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias Advisory Council Within the Department of Health and Human Services and to Require a State Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias

ME LD2252

An Act to Establish the Criminal Records Review Commission

ME LD653

An Act to Establish the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services and Establish Public Defender Offices for Aroostook, Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties

ME LD2064

An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding Certain Advisory Councils and Boards Related to the Department of Marine Resources

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.