PORTLAND, Maine — House Majority Leader Matt Moonen has proposed a bill aimed at updating the reimbursement system for Maine lawmakers. During a public hearing on the proposed legislation, he described the changes as straightforward adjustments to the reimbursement framework that governs legislative expenses.
The bill, currently under review by the State and Local Government Committee, seeks to eliminate the existing rules that cap the reimbursements legislators can receive for meals and travel. Instead, fees would be determined by the Legislative Council, which would require a minimum of six votes in favor of any rate, maintaining the same voting standard for all Council decisions. These rates would be constrained to align with the federal per diem rates set for similar expenses.
Furthermore, the proposal clarifies the mileage reimbursement process for lawmakers who must travel to Augusta for committee meetings or other legislative work when the Legislature is not in session. According to the bill, mileage will be calculated from the lawmaker’s residence using what is deemed the shortest and most direct route.
Rep. Randall Adam Greenwood, a member of the committee, raised questions about the definition of “abode” in relation to reimbursements, asking for additional details to better understand its implications. He also sought clarity on the term “primary residence.” His concerns echo past issues concerning mileage reimbursements tied to former state Senate President Troy Jackson, who faced scrutiny over his travel claims due to owning a home in Augusta while representing Aroostook County.
If the legislation passes, it will stipulate that individuals who take on vacated legislative seats will begin receiving compensation from their date of seating, improving accountability and financial clarity for new members.
During the hearing for LD 1968, Moonen highlighted that while hotel reimbursement rates were recently increased through bipartisan support, there should not be such a long wait for future adjustments. He emphasized that lawmakers should not incur financial losses for fulfilling their legislative duties in Augusta.
A work session to further discuss LD 1968 has been scheduled for May 21 at 1 p.m.
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