Senator Ned Claxton

02/12/2022

Friends,

My time as your state senator is coming to a close with swearing-in day for the new Legislature scheduled for December 7.

Having the opportunity to represent our community in Augusta was the honor of a lifetime, and one I won't ever forget. I couldn't have imagined where this journey would take me when I first decided to run in 2017. Between the people I've met, the conversations we've had, and issues I've been able to make my voice heard on, it's been an incredible journey. Having the ability to take the concerns I heard from folks at home with me to the State House to work on making meaningful change in their lives was a profound responsibility. Over the past four years, we have worked in a bipartisan manner to serve the people of Maine, and while there are certainly more challenges ahead for our state, I'm extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish. I want to thank everyone for their support, calls, emails and discussions during this time. Hearing directly from you has enabled me to do the job to the best of my abilities.

Stepping away is difficult, but I look forward to spending more time with family and friends, and taking some time to relax. Thank you again for the privilege of serving. I hope to see you around soon.

Ned

16/09/2022

Each year on September 16 we celebrate Stepfamily Day. It was first established in 1997 and this year marks its 25th Anniversary.

Today in our country, over 30% of the under 18 population live in a stepfamily environment. This is a day to celebrate those families - parents and children - and the many invaluable contributions they make on a daily basis.

Is enhanced by our strong commitment to support the stepfamilies of our nation in their mission to raise their children, create strong family structures to support the individual members of the family, instill in them a sense of responsibility to all extended family members. To develop programs, res...

11/09/2022

Today, we remember the people we lost and the bravery that took place in the wake of unspeakable tragedy. We remember the extraordinary men and women who ran into the line of danger without hesitation to save lives. We remember the first responders who came from all over the country to help a city and nation emerge from the rubble. And more than anything, we promise to never forget.

18/08/2022

No one should be forced to go without hearing aids because of cost, but for too many today that is the case. Making these devices available over-the-counter is a good step toward expanding access and increasing competition among manufacturers, which will in turn lower prices for consumers.

Though expected to be slightly less expensive, cost is still an obstacle as the device and fitting services can run more than $5,000 and insurance coverage is minimal.

04/08/2022

Yesterday was the first meeting of the new task force to examine violence against health care workers that I'm co-chairing. Violence against our health care staff is far too common these days, and while we have a lot of work to do to prevent it and deal with it appropriately, I'm glad to be a part of the effort looking for solutions.

14/07/2022

Our health care workers dedicate their careers to caring for those in need, but sadly, their workplaces are not always safe spaces.

It's a tragic reality that violence against folks in health care has increased in recent years, which is why I'm proud to be serving on a new task force that will examine the issue and look into ways we can address it. I'm looking forward to getting started at our first meeting on August 3.

While the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to a rise in incidents, violence against health care workers was an issue long before it started.

24/06/2022

While I respect that there are significant religious differences about abortion, I don’t feel that one religious perspective should be favored over others. I’m proud that in my time in the Senate, we have worked to protect access to safe, legal abortion. It is more important than ever that we continue doing so here in Maine now that Roe has been overturned.

The decision, unthinkable just a few years ago, was the culmination of decades of efforts by abortion opponents, made possible by an emboldened right side of the court.

17/06/2022

Looking forward to RiverFest this weekend! Check out the full schedule of events at the link below.

The Lewiston Auburn RiverFest is a multi-day event occurring in the downtown areas of Auburn and Lewiston. The event is intended to draw visitors to the region, and to offer residents quality and fun activities to view and participate in over the course of three days. This event is located near and....

09/06/2022

This Saturday, community members will gather to celebrate the life of John Jenkins, former mayor and state senator, who dedicated so much of his life to serving our community and uplifting others. The celebration of life will be held at the Lewiston Armory beginning at 2 p.m. I'm glad that the community will get a proper opportunity to reflect on his life and service.

The public service will be held at the Lewiston Armory at 65 Central Ave. to remember the former Twin Cities mayor, state senator, motivational speaker and friend to many.

02/06/2022

Have questions about the $850 relief checks that were approved by the Legislature earlier this spring? Here's what you should know:

✅Those who receive social security and/or supplemental security income CAN receive checks, so long as they meet the other criteria (follow the chart below to see if you qualify).

✅ For those who have NOT filed their 2021 taxes—there’s still time! Even though the 2021 Maine individual income tax filing deadline has passed, people will still be able to file through October 31, 2022 to claim their $850 relief checks. For assistance in identifying free tax help, go to www.cashmaine.org, call 2-1-1, or visit 211maine.org.

➡️ For answers to more FAQs, go to www.maine.gov/governor/mills/relief-checks

➡️ To check your eligibility, go to: portal.maine.gov/refundstatus/payment?fbclid=IwAR3Bj9yX5hTL1rwq1geibCfYwidSYtYZK11hcL7JzB4x-VDRdtnecLGhFhk

And if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

30/05/2022

Today and every day, we remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we hold dear. You are not forgotten.

29/04/2022

Happy to share that my bill to support Maine's Meals on Wheels Programs is headed to the Governor's desk for signature! The final version of the legislation will allocate $250,000 for programs across the state to reimburse drivers for mileage accrued during deliveries.

Meals on Wheels programs are so important to many of our seniors in Maine. Beyond getting meals to them, deliveries present an opportunity for wellness checks, friendly conversation and interaction at a time when many folks may still feel isolated in their homes. Ensuring these programs can continue to operate is critical, and I'm grateful to my colleagues for their support.

AUGUSTA – On Monday, April 25, a bill from Sen. Ned Claxton, D-Auburn, was enacted by the Maine Senate. The bill, LD 485, “An Act To Continue Funding for Home-delivered Meals for Homebound Seniors and To Address Growing Demand,” would provide funding to reimburse area agencies on aging for th...