Solution Program For New Greatness
1
Increase Mental Health Workforce
Maine is experiencing an acute shortage of behavioral health practitioners, which impacts access to behavioral health care for thousands of Maine adults and children. A recent Maine study showed that Mainers are often waiting 8 months or even longer to get into counseling. We are experiencing a mental health crisis in our state, in particular for our youth. 49% of Maine youth ages 12-17 experiencing depression did not receive mental health care during the prior year, according to a NAMI study in 2021. We must invest in reducing workforce barriers for Mental Health Professionals in Maine and ensure all Maine children have access to care.
3
Establish a Small Business Advocacy
As a business owner I know the struggles that our local businesses are facing and I am dedicated to alleviating the problems of starting and running a successful business.
My plan consists of streamlining the business licensing process, establishing a ‘Small Business Advocacy office. A Small Business Advocacy office that offers one-on-one consulting services to help businesses navigate state regulations and access available tax incentives is exactly what our state needs to have small businesses not only survive but thrive.
When starting my own business, a lot of time and money was wasted dealing with unnecessary administration hoops. I propose legislation to streamline licensing processes across multiple sectors, reducing the time and paperwork required to start and maintain a business.
3
Access to Equitable Housing & Preservation of Existing Affordable Housing
Rent Control
Implementing rent control policies can help prevent excessive rent increases, allowing tenants in affordable housing to remain in their homes without facing eviction due to unaffordable rents.
Tenant Protections
Enact and enforce strong tenant protections, such as regulations against unjust evictions and harassment by landlords. This ensures that residents in affordable housing have security and stability in their homes.
Legal Protections
Strengthen legal protections against displacement, such as “right to return” policies for tenants temporarily displaced during renovations or redevelopment projects.
3
Education
Education is the cornerstone of a prosperous society, and every child deserves access to quality education. My plan focuses on increasing funding for schools, modernizing educational facilities, and providing comprehensive support for teachers and students. We need to ensure equitable access to educational resources, enhance special education programs, and expand after-school and extracurricular opportunities. By prioritizing education accessibility, we can empower the next generation to achieve their fullest potential.
