Mills pitches $10.3B budget plan as progressives call for stronger social safety net

The budget will now be taken up by the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, which is under new leadership this year, and will also be negotiated by members of legislative leadership, such as Senate President Troy Jackson (D-Aroostook) and Speaker of House Rachel Talbot Ross (D-Portland). The legislature will hold a series of public hearings on the measure, and advocates will attempt to shape the document and ensure their priorities are ultimately included.

One such advocacy group, the Maine Center for Economic Policy, released a statement Wednesday applauding Mills’ proposal but adding that lawmakers have the ability to shape the budget to be even better.

“While the proposed budget reflects the continuation of critical supports for Maine workers, families, and communities, there are many more choices lawmakers can make to create long term tools and opportunities for Maine people,” MECEP president and CEO Garrett Martin said.

Click here to read the full story, first published January 11, 2023 in Beacon.