Election Day '10

Dear Friends and Neighbors--

Tomorrow, November 2nd, is Election Day.

During this campaign I visited over 3000 doors in the district and talked with thousands of voters. I met with retired folks in Madrid Township, attorneys and maple syrup producers in Weld, papermakers in Rumford, educators in Andover, and carpenters in Roxbury--just to name a few. Yesterday, during one of the final days of the campaign, I met with a Selectperson in Byron, a Maine Guide “off the grid” in Roxbury, and saw two massive bull moose moving slowly alongside the road next to Coos Canyon--a wonderful reminder of the wild beauty we’re so fortunate to be surrounded by here in Western Maine. I appreciate the openness, the candor, and the wisdom of the many folks that met and spoke with me during my campaign for re-election.

This has been a challenging election cycle in general and in particular for incumbents. Our national economy has continued to struggle and understandably people are running out of patience. I’m proud of the fact that I ran a positive campaign focusing on the issues and my service to the citizens of the River Valley. Unfortunately, like a lot of my colleagues, I was the target of negative advertising both from my opponent, as well as outside groups. I’m happy that I choose not to respond to the attacks and distortions because I think we’re better than that in the River Valley.

Throughout the campaign, I never stopped focusing on my service to District 92. Over the past few months, I have been able to submit a number of proposed bills--most of which have been based on ideas I heard from you during my last two years of service and the campaign. These ideas range from promoting expanded marketing of Maine maple products, to finding ways to make government more efficient and responsive. These initiatives will strengthen our economy and create jobs, as well as protect the health and safety of our citizens. I hope that I will be re-elected and able to pursue these important initiatives that you have suggested.

To all of you who have given me advice, encouragement and support during my campaigns and legislative service, I want to express my sincerest gratitude. It would be impossible for me to undertake the tasks of a legislator without your ideas and opinions--so thank you for helping me to do better work on your behalf.

Finally, thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent you for the past two years. Serving the River Valley has been one of the best experiences of my life. I hope that I have the opportunity to continue serving to keep pushing forward for District 92 on the issues that matter most to all of us--jobs, educating our children, and protecting this wonderful state of Maine.

I humbly ask for your vote tomorrow and thank you again for the support.

All the Best,

Matt Peterson

"Matt is an honorable and caring individual who knows how to overcome obstacles."

Thank you to Donna Morse, one of our area's great educators, for this letter from yesterday's issue of the Falls Times:
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I live in Andover and have known Matt all his life. Matt is an honorable
and caring individual who knows how to overcome obstacles. He is
productive and helpful and looks out for the good of all with knowledge
and a common sense approach. Matt has managed to build important
relationships with leaders of both parties. I am sure Matt will continue
to work diligently in helping to make Maine and the River Valley a more
affordable state with more jobs, helping seniors, and ensuring that our
schools are preparing out young people for tomorrow jobs. Please vote for
Matt

Donna Morse, Andover

"He best embodies the spirit of his district."

Thank you to Cam Kaubris--MV's star Quarterback--for this great endorsement! Go Falcons!
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I am a senior at Mountain Valley High School and I live in Rumford, Maine. I am a three sport athlete and a member of the National Honor Society. I am captain of both the Falcon football and basketball squads.

I have previously voted for Matt Peterson in the primary. At the time, I was only seventeen (17) years old, and I learned from my history teacher, Chris Carver, that as long as I was eighteen (18) by the time of the November elections, I could vote in the primaries. Needless to say, I was very excited. I had been waiting for quite some time now to take part in our nation’s governing process. I feel that it is important for all Maine’s citizens to get out and vote and to have a fair representation in Augusta.

As I scanned the ballot at the American Legion, I happened upon Matt Peterson’s name. I was glad to see that he was running for re-election. Mr. Peterson has done an excellent job as a representative for this area’s voters. He has all the qualities one would look for in a politician. He is thoughtful on all issues, he brings a common-sense approach to all of his decision making and most importantly, he best embodies the spirit of his district. He has an amazing ability to incorporate the views of both the youth as well as the elderly. He has also built relationships with leaders of both parties in order to benefit the constituents of the River Valley. That kind of talent and bipartisanship is rarely seen and is an often over looked strength of Mr. Peterson.

Matt Peterson has already accomplished a great deal and has overcome plenty of obstacles. I hope that voters take into account what he has done, and also the potential that he holds. Vote for Matt, he still has much that he can accomplish for us.

Cameron Kaubris
Rumford, Maine

"I’m proud to have him representing our community."

Thank you to Rick Greene for this Letter to the Editor that ran in today's issue of the Rumford Falls Times:
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I am writing in support of Matt Peterson in his re-election as state representative in District 92. I have had the pleasure of having a number of different interactions with Matt during his first term as state representative. He is always accessible to answer questions and listen to concerns.

Matt started his first year sponsoring a bill that sought to radically overhaul services for people dependent on home health care services. His goal was to improve the options for people that were dependent on these services while saving the taxpayers money through reducing a duplication of services and increasing efficiency. This bill was ultimately passed by the legislature. This is extremely rare for a freshman legislator. I believe this is a testament to Matt’s intelligence, hard work and concern for all of the people of the state of Maine.

Matt is not simply a politician, playing the game to get elected. It is very clear to me that Matt truly cares for the people he represents. I’m proud to have him representing our community.

Richard Greene, Rumford

"Matt has demonstrated his commitment to serving the diverse needs of the district."

Thank you to Jim and Linda Macgregor for this wonderful endorsement in today's issue of the Sun Journal:
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In his first term as a representative, Matt Peterson has demonstrated his commitment to serving the diverse needs of the district. District 92 covers a large territory: Andover, Byron, Rumford, Weld, Rangeley and Sandy River Plantation; the unorganized territories of west central Franklin County; and Madrid.

He brings many strengths and skills to his office, including boundless energy, a questioning mind and genuine respect for the people he serves.

But the standout for us is his communication with his constituents — not only reports from his office, but rapid and reliable response to the citizens; no call unreturned, no letter or e-mail unanswered.

He is running for a second term in the Maine House. We’re confident that the voters of District 92 will cast their ballots for Matt Peterson. We surely will.

Jim and Linda Macgregor, Rumford Point

http://www.sunjournal.com/letters/story/929082

"Matthew J. Peterson of Rumford has already rolled his sleeves up, proven his honesty and integrity."

Many thanks to Oxford County Sheriff Wayne Gallant for this wonderful endorsement in today's issue of the Rumford Falls Times:
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To the Editor:

As a resident of Rumford I want to believe I am represented in Augusta by an individual who is not lacking in honesty and integrity. I want to believe I have a representative that is a true voice of those he represents. I want to believe that my state representative knows he is in Augusta to represent our needs not the dictates of government or special interests. I believe our state representatives, now more than ever, need to forget party politics, roll up their sleeves and do the things needed to get this State out of the deep fiscal hole it has fallen into.

District 92 State Representative Matthew J. Peterson of Rumford has already rolled his sleeves up, proven his honesty and integrity. He proudly goes to Augusta and clearly has shown he knows who he represents…all the people of District 92. Please join me on November 2nd in allowing Matt to continue the great job he has been doing.

Wayne J. Gallant
Rumford

"Matt will again be my choice for a better Maine."

Thank you to Brenda Sassi for this beautiful letter which also ran in today's Rumford Falls Times:

I supported Matt in his previous election and having seen him in action there is no doubt in my mind that this young man is going places. Visiting Matt in Augusta and listening and watching Matt it is very obvious that he is respected by members of both parties. Everyone wanted to talk to him about various topics and get his feedback. His continuous updates in our weekly newspaper keeps us well informed on what he is doing. There is no lack of communication with his District 92 and the State of Maine in what he is achieving to get the real value for our tax dollar.

Matt is a gentlemen that is positive, very approachable, a problem solver and will work with lawmakers on both sides of the aisles and will always work to achieve mutual goals. Matt will again be my choice for a better Maine. Why change something great if it is going well.

Brenda Sassi, Rumford

"It’s all possible because of Matt’s leadership."

Thank you to Randy and Ruby Gunther for this wonderful endorsement from today's Rumford Falls Times:

To the Editor:

We have known Matt most of his life, have watched him grow up in Rumford, and see he is reflecting the best of our River Valley community. Despite facing a few setbacks along the way, Matt has continued to work hard and has always focused his attention outward on how he could help others. He has provided great service to Rumford and the River Valley in the Legislature and we look forward to giving him our vote on November 2nd.

We are particularly proud that our representative was the one who brought forward the legislation to make Mixed Martial Arts a legal and regulated sport in Maine. We share Matt’s passion for this sport, and he was the one who stepped up to get the sport regulated in our state. Matt accomplished this by securing almost unanimous support from both parties in both bodies of the Legislature. In just a few months, we expect that Maine citizens will be attending the first ever mixed martial arts show in our state -- and that will be just the beginning for promotions that will bring new revenues to small businesses around the state. While the first shows will likely be in Portland, Lewiston/Auburn or Bangor -- we’re looking forward to the time that events will be held in the River Valley. It’s all possible because of Matt’s leadership.

As a young family that has decided to live and work and raise our daughter here in Rumford, we understand the need for strong representation to promote the future of our area. We hope you’ll join us in sending one of Rumford’s finest back to represent us in Augusta. Vote for Matt Peterson.

Randy and Ruby Gunther, Rumford

Comments to Honor Paul Harris Fellows

Today, Columbus Day 2010, I was honored to be invited by the Rumford Area Rotary to participate in a tree planting ceremony in honor of Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary. Reprinted below are my remarks from today:

Comments by Representative Matt Peterson to Honor Paul Harris Fellows October 11, 2010

It is a particular honor for me to have been invited to make a few comments regarding the important contributions that Rotary has made to our community and to communities across the globe. We remember Paul Harris, who started the Rotary Clubs, who came to Rumford more than 70 years ago to give a boost to the Rumford Rotary which has an outstanding record of community service for 85 years.

Over those 85 years, Rotary members, collectively and individually have done many things for the community -- service that was both obvious and public, as well as acts of kindness that were private and every bit as significant in the lives they have touched.

It’s become pretty popular to bash government these days and as someone who has had the opportunity to serve my neighbors in the River Valley for the last two years -- I can tell you that the negativity can become a little discouraging. There is a great deal of need in our community and in our state, and there is an appropriate role for government to play in developing and delivering the services that individuals need in order to stay healthy and make the most of their lives.

One area where the critics of government are correct is that “government has its limitations.” Government cannot do it all. Motivated individuals, working individually or in service organizations like Rotary are another essential ingredient in making our communities work for all citizens. I look at the areas of concern for the Rumford Rotary -- Health Care Services; Education; Quality of Community Life --and these are the same issues that are central to the discussions of the Legislature. Fortunately, the Rotary doesn’t have to deal with the details of fishing licenses -- although they would probably do a good job with that, too.

When I look at Rotary -- I see partnerships. Partnerships between individuals, partnerships with government, partnership with institutions that serve the community like the Red Cross or Androscoggin Home Health and Hospice, partnerships that extend educational opportunities through scholarships or literacy action. These partnerships are essential to any healthy community and Rotary is that glue that holds communities together.

I’m honored to be here today and look forward to the opportunity to hear from the Paul Harris Fellows and celebrate the many achievements of Rumford Rotary and its members. Thank you.

November 2010 Ballot Questions Information

Question 1: Citizen Initiative


Ballot Question: Do you want to allow a casino with table games and slot machines at a single site in Oxford County, subject to local approval, with part of the profits going to specific state, local and tribal programs?

Question 1 is a citizen initiative that would authorize the Gambling Control Board to license a casino at a single site in Oxford County for the operation of table games and slot machines. The casino could be licensed to operate up to 1,500 slot machines and would be the only place in the state where table games are allowed.

To be eligible for a casino license, the operator must own a facility at which harness racing was conducted in the 2009 racing year. The only facility that meets this requirement is the Oxford County Fairgrounds, which conducted harness racing in 2009 under a state license. The casino also must meet other minimum requirements including lot size, distance from the fairgrounds and proximity to police, hospitals and the interstate.

The casino would also have to be approved by the municipality where it is to be located. The local vote must be held on or before December 31, 2011. Renewal of a casino license would also require local approval.

After January 1, 2011, no other casino or slot machine facility could be licensed unless it is first approved by voters in a statewide referendum, as well as by the municipal officers or voters of the municipality where it is to be located.

The casino operator would be required to turn over 46% of the net revenue from slot machines and 16% of the net revenue from table games to the Gambling Control Board for distribution to a variety of state and local programs in specified amounts. 25% of the net revenue from slot machines and 10% of the net revenue from table games would be used to supplement (but not supplant) funding for essential programs and services in public schools. The remainder of the net slot machine revenue would be distributed in amounts, ranging from 1% to 4%, to the University of Maine System and Maine Community College System scholarship programs, the tribal governments of the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the Agricultural Fair Support Fund, the Sire Stakes Fund, a fund to supplement harness racing purses, and dairy farm stabilization programs. Net revenue from both slot machines and from table games would also be directed to the host municipality (2%), the host county (1%), and to support administrative costs of the Gambling Control Board (3%), which include counseling services for gambling addiction.

A YES vote is to enact the initiated legislation.

A NO vote opposes the initiated legislation.


Question 2: Bond Issue

Ballot Question: Do you favor a $5,000,000 bond issue to be awarded on a competitive basis to increase access to dental care in Maine, $3,500,000 to be used for a community-based teaching dental clinic affiliated with or operated by a college of dental medicine to be matched by $3,500,000 in other funds, and $1,500,000 to be used to create or upgrade community-based health and dental care clinics across the State to increase their capacity as teaching and dental clinics?

Question 2 would authorize the State to issue bonds in an amount not to exceed $5,000,000 to raise funds to be used for a community-based teaching dental clinic and to create or upgrade community-based health and dental clinics across the State to increase their capacity as teaching and dental clinics. The bonds would run for a period not longer than 10 years from the date of issue and would be backed by the full faith and credit of the State. The bonds may not be issued before July 1, 2011.

Proceeds of the sale of the bonds are to be awarded on a competitive basis and would be expended under the direction and supervision of the Department of Health and Human Services as follows:

$3,500,000 must be expended for a community-based teaching clinic affiliated with or operated by a college of dental medicine and must be matched with $3,500,000 in other funds.

$1,500,000 must be expended to create or upgrade community-based health and dental care clinics across the State to increase their capacity as teaching and dental clinics.

A YES vote approves the authorization of the $5,000,000 bond issue to finance all of the activities.

A NO vote disapproves the bond issue in its entirety.


Question 3: Bond Issue

Ballot Question: Do you favor a $9,750,000 bond issue to invest in land conservation and working waterfront preservation and to preserve state parks to be matched by $9,250,000 in federal and other funds?

Question 3 would authorize the State to issue bonds in an amount not to exceed $9,750,000 to raise funds to invest in: the acquisition of land and interest in land for conservation, water access, outdoor recreation, wildlife and fish habitat, farmland preservation and working waterfront preservation. The bonds would run for a period not longer than 10 years from the date of issue and would be backed by the full faith and credit of the State.

Proceeds of the sale of the bonds would be expended as follows:

$9,250,000 would be expended under the direction and supervision of the Land for Maine’s Future Board, as follows:

$6,500,000 must be spent for the acquisition of land for conservation, water access, and wildlife and fish habitat, outdoor recreation, including hunting and fishing, and farmland preservation. The bond funds must be matched with at least $6,500,000 in public and private contributions.

$1,750,000 must be made available to protect working waterfront properties that support commercial fisheries businesses in accordance with the Maine Working Waterfront Access Pilot Program. Grants for working waterfront projects would have to be matched, dollar for dollar, by the local governments or organizations receiving the grants and would be made subject to a condition that the property may not be used, altered or developed in a manner that precludes its use by commercial fisheries businesses.

$1,000,000 must be made available to preserve working farmland. Grants for the preservation of farmlands would be made when matching funds are available from cooperating entities.

With the exception of working waterfront projects and farmland preservation projects, hunting, fishing, trapping and public access may not be prohibited on lands acquired with these bond proceeds, unless required by applicable federal, state or local laws.

$500,000 would be expended by the Department of Conservation’s Bureau of Parks and Lands to preserve state parks and properties managed by the Department of Conservation.

A YES vote approves the authorization of the $9,750,000 bond issue to finance all of the activities.

A NO vote disapproves the bond issue in its entirety.

" I can depend upon Matt to make sure that this area is not forgotten in Augusta..."

Thank you to Ron McHugh, Executive Director of Oxford County Mental Health Services, for the following letter that appeared in this week's issue of the Rumford Falls Times:

I am writing on behalf of Rep. Matt Peterson’s campaign to represent this District again in Augusta. I have resided in Rumford for 10 years and I manage Oxford County Mental Health Services, located at 150 Congress Street in Rumford.

I first met Matt Peterson five years ago when the Jane deFrees Health Center was being built. I needed someone to re-assure me that this facility was barrier free for people with disabilities and Alpha-1 sent Matt Peterson to evaluate the Health Center. From the moment I met him, he impressed me with his genuine and deeply felt concern for the people of this area.

Since Matt’s election two years ago, I have depended upon him to help preserve and promote the services this agency provides and the almost 50 jobs at stake. He has never let me or my agency down. He always returns phone calls and he has worked hard in many different ways to promote this area of Maine. He is in touch with our concerns. Whenever I had to deal with key decision makers in Augusta, I thankfully could always depend on Matt Peterson being in my corner to preserve and improve the services we offer to the people in this area and throughout Oxford County.

Last year, Matt Peterson played a very important role in advocating for our fair share of health care funding. Sometimes, Oxford County is not at the top of the priority list in Augusta but because of his efforts, this agency received an increase of about $125,000 for expanded health care services for the Rumford area.

I know that Matt Peterson will continue his dedicated work on our behalf. These are tough times and we will face tough decisions. Matt is a dedicated and creative guy who finds solutions without raising our taxes. I can depend upon Matt to make sure that this area is not forgotten in Augusta and that our government is responsive and cost effective as we go forward.

I would urge everyone re-elect Matt Peterson in the upcoming election.


Ron McHugh, Rumford

Peterson's Maine Forest Legacy PAC Ranking -- Highest Category of VERY STRONG

I am proud to report that I have received the highest rating of a VERY STRONG advocate for Maine’s forest products industry by the Maine Forest Legacy Political Action Committee based upon my responses to a candidate questionnaire and prior voting record in the 124th Maine Legislature. This ranking indicates the highest level of support for Maine’s forest products industry including loggers, truckers, private landowners, manufacturing facilities and foresters.

More from the Maine Forest Legacy PAC: "Candidates in this category demonstrate a very strong support of the forest products industry in their survey responses and many in their voting records during the 124th Maine Legislature. As candidates, you have a firm grasp on policy issues pertaining to the forest products industry and we feel that you can be looked to as champions on issues that matter to Maine’s loggers, truckers, paper mills, saw mills, private landowners, foresters, and wood energy facilities."

For more information visit http://www.maineforest.org/.

"He is always looking for solutions."

Many thanks to Rumford's Fire Chief, Bob Chase, for this letter of endorsement from today's Rumford Falls Times:

To The Editor:

Having known Matt Peterson for my entire life I have developed a great respect for his knowledge, ideas and ability to work with people.

Over the last two years, it has been a real pleasure to work more closely with Matt Peterson as our State Representative. I cannot remember another state representative who has been so consistent in attending Selectman's meetings, talking with the Town's staff and leaders and looking for opportunities to move forward our agenda in Rumford.

Matt is a listener -- he makes a point to ask your opinion. He is more interested in trying to hear about the challenges we face then the things he is doing. He is always looking for solutions. I find that approach very refreshing.

Matt understands the River Valley. He has lived here all his life except for a few years while he was attending college. We are lucky to have him, and I hope all my friends and neighbors will join me in voting for Matt in November and sending him back to represent us in Augusta.

Robert Chase, Rumford

Testimony in Support of the Rules for the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine

Yesterday in Augusta was the rule making proceeding of the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine to adopt new rules as required by Title 8 MRSA §523 relating to Mixed Martial Arts competitions/contests, including but not limited to rules designed to protect the health and safety of authorized participants and the integrity of the competition. Below is my testimony in support of the proposed rule.
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Chairman Bouffard and Members of the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine, I am Matt Peterson, proud to represent District 92 in the Maine House of Representatives, which includes the towns of Andover, Byron, Roxbury, Rumford, Weld and plantations of Rangeley and Sandy River plus the unorganized territories of West Central Franklin and Madrid Township. I am here today to speak in favor of the adoption of the rules to govern the sport of mixed martial arts here in Maine.

To begin with, I’d like to applaud you all for your service on this board. As the prime sponsor of the bill that created the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine, I have closely followed your work over the last nine months. You’ve met early, and you’ve met often, and you’ve approached the work of rulemaking with the diligence and attention to detail that it requires.

Our goals when my legislative colleagues and I set out to find a way to bring the sport of mixed martial arts to Maine were very clear. The safety of the sport’s participants and spectators was our highest priority. To that end, we knew we needed a regulatory body in place with strong standards to protect people. We also recognized that we weren’t the first state to sanction and regulate this sport--so we also wanted to see adopted best practices from other parts of the country where shows were already being held successfully.

I feel that the document before us for consideration today achieves these goals. You’ve done the work--you’ve consulted with Athletic Commissions from other states that have successful mixed martial arts circuits and have brought to bear here all the best elements of those programs. I have complete confidence that the rules you’ve proposed for adoption will protect the competitors, promoters, and Maine people that plan on attending these events. I’m grateful for the work you’ve done, honored to be associated with you, and urge quick adoption of these rules. Thank you.

Press Release: SAM Endorses Rep. Peterson

The Sportsman's Alliance of Maine's PAC has endorsed Representative Matt Peterson in his bid for re-election to represent District 92 in the Maine Legislature.

The Sportsman's Alliance of Maine is a non-profit membership organization with 15,000 members and is the largest conservation organization in the state. SAM advocates for hunters and other outdoor sports enthusiasts before the Legislature.

Commenting on this prestigious endorsement, Representative Peterson said: "I’ve grown up in the River Valley, where hunting, fishing and boating are all integral to the lives of so many people -- including my own family. We live in a beautiful part of the state and I remain committed to preserving the natural resources of the area and to ensuring access for sports men and women who contribute to our economy.”

"We will be facing many difficult choices in the upcoming Legislative session and the pressures on our budget will be intense,” Peterson said. “Given those pressures, I will pay particular attention to the bills pertaining to our outdoor recreation and sporting heritage including -- the Inland Fisheries & Wildlife budget, milfoil prevention, firearms safety education, fish hatcheries and access to stocked waterways."

Matt Peterson is running for re-election to the House of Representatives for District 92 which includes Andover, Byron, Roxbury, Rumford, Weld and Plantations of Rangeley and Sandy River, plus the unorganized territories of West Central Franklin and Madrid Township. He is completing his first term and serves on the Health and Human Services Committee.

For further information, call 776-8051 or the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine at 622-5503.

"In tune with Mainers"

From today's Sun Journal:

“I will keep pushing forward for you on jobs, reasonable state spending, educating our children, keeping the services for our most vulnerable neighbors, and protecting this wonderful state of Maine.”

That statement by Matt Peterson, seeking re-election as state representative in District 92, focuses on issues that are very important to all Mainers.

Peterson first points to jobs, which Republicans nationwide have reduced through their devastating great recession. He also points to education that is so important to jobs in our state. And he understands that spending must be reasonable.

He also notes “services for our most vulnerable neighbors,” which means maintaining Medicaid, not only for people, but for the state's hospitals.

Last, “protecting this wonderful state of Maine,” a value that we all share, work to conserve and defend.

I support Matt Peterson, a Mainer who is in tune with Mainers.

Tom Fallon, Rumford

http://www.sunjournal.com/letters/story/914463

"Matt has all the qualities we need..."

From today's issue of the Rumford Falls Times:

To the Editor:

I am writing in support of Matt Peterson's re-election. Matt has all the qualities we need in our representatives -- a strong belief in citizen participation, a willingness to listen, and the intelligence to find solutions. We need more people like Matt in Augusta."

Steve Thurston

Endorsed by SAM

I was pleased to earn the endorsement of the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine (SAM) in my race for re-election. Some candidates disregard the endorsement process and dismiss it as unimportant, but I don't share that opinion. Earning the SAM endorsement demonstrates that my voting record in the last session and my positions on the issues line up with the thinking of this important advocacy group -- one with lots of members in the River Valley. I am proud to have been endorsed by SAM, and I have sought the endorsement of other groups that are important to River Valley voters. The most important endorsement will be November 2nd, when I hope that the majority of District 92 voters will give me their vote so I can have the honor of continuing to serve. Thank you for your support. --Matt

Summer '10 Update

Although the 124th Maine Legislature adjourned back in April, there is still plenty of work to be done during the off-season and the summer of 2010 has been no exception.

In July I drove to Washington D.C. to meet on Capitol Hill one-on-one with each of the four members of Maine’s Congressional Delegation; Representatives Michaud and Pingree and Senators Snowe and Collins.

The major focus of our discussion was, of course, jobs and the economy. I stressed my firm belief in the need to strengthen our existing manufacturing base while positioning Maine to be a part of the future employment market. There was little disagreement amongst us that we constantly need to be seeking ways to keep Maine’s bread-and-butter paper producing roots intact while simultaneously improving our educational system so that the next generation is well prepared for the science, technology, and engineering employment opportunities for which the demand is always increasing.

Another talking point during my discussions came directly from my conversations with local providers and constituents. I asked each member of our delegation to support the extension of the Federal Medicaid Assistance Percentage (FMAP), which is used to calculate the amount of Federal share of state expenditures for services. Extending FMAP as part of the ongoing economic stimulus is essential to maintain the social services safety net for people with a disability and seniors. Given our demographics and economics, many Maine citizens depend upon support from the federal and state government to live independently. I am committed to the most sustainable and cost-efficient service delivery system, but that system must be adequately funded -- and in this economic downturn greater participation by the federal government is essential to bridge the gap as the Maine economy recovers.

I also stressed that now is the time to promote full funding of the federal portion of special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Maine’s public schools are struggling with the impacts of state budget cuts that have reduced state aid to education in light of declining state revenues. One of the largest expenses for schools is the money spent to serve children with special educational needs. This is also a very vulnerable population where an early investment can pay lifelong dividends for the individual as well as society as a whole. When the IDEA was passed, creating specific mandates for states and local schools, the federal government agreed to pay its share of the costs associated with those mandates. That promise has never been kept. The federal government is providing local school districts with just under 20 percent of its commitment rather than the 40 percent specified by the law, creating a $10.6 billion shortfall for states and local school districts. I pointed out that now is a perfect time for the federal government to honor those commitments by fully funding special education mandates for local schools and that H.R. 3578/S. 1652 is an appropriate mechanism to accomplish this funding.

The final issue I raised during our discussions was the fact that as a result of our involvement in two wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the number of young Maine citizens with serious disabilities is increasing. We owe an enormous debt to these wounded warriors, and we must make adequate investments to insure that we support them now that they have made a significant sacrifice for their country. Not only must we insure that the resources are available through our Veteran’s facilities, but we must also insure that there are adequate resources in the broader community to support their full re-integration into community life. Simply put, we must invest directly in our soldiers who are returning with some type of disability, but we must also invest more broadly in the communities that will continue to serve them. Such investments will create the largest possible return.

On the last day of my visit to Washington D.C, I responded to an invitation to present at the National Council of Independent Living’s (NCIL) Annual Conference on the importance of each of us as citizens taking a role to access and influence the lawmaking process. NCIL is the longest-running cross-disability, grassroots organization in the nation. This year their annual conference was attended by over 700 people. I was honored to be invited and excited to share with them the progress we’ve made in Maine in promoting systems change in areas such as home and community based long-term supportive services.

I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy start to the school year. With a fresh start comes a renewed sense of hope and new opportunities to succeed. Good luck in all of your endeavors this academic year and I look forward to watching everyone work hard in the classroom and on the sports field.

As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Representative.

Peterson Endorsed by Fire Fighters

The Professional Fire Fighters of Maine (PFFM) has endorsed Matt Peterson in his run for re-election to continue serving House District 92 in the Maine Legislature. The decision to endorse Peterson was made based upon his voting record in the 124th Maine Legislature and his responses to the PFFM questionnaire.

"I am thrilled to receive the endorsement of an organization that plays such a vital role in maintaining the health and safety of our communities," Peterson said. "Fire fighters put their lives on the line to serve us and I'm glad that my voting record on the issues that are important to them reflects my respect and admiration for what they do for Maine people day-in and day-out."

For more information visit http://pffmaine.org/.

Peterson Endorsed by Teachers

The Maine Education Association (MEA), Maine's professional advocacy organization for over 25,000 Maine educators, has endorsed Representative Matt Peterson in his bid for re-election to continue serving House District 92 in the Maine Legislature. Endorsements were given to candidates who demonstrated strong support for public education, for the well-being of Maine's students, and for the best interests of Maine's dedicated education workforce.

"Being a product of Maine's public schools and coming from a family of educators, I understand the need for a strong educational system," Peterson said. "I also respect that there aren't any quick fixes or magic bullets and that just giving a child a computer does not make him or her a motivated learner. Teachers play a priceless role in the process--and as individuals, families and as a state we need to support them in their efforts to give our children a quality education."

For more information visit http://www.maine.nea.org/.

Presentation to Rumford Board of Selectmen 8/5/2010

One of the best parts of the job of being a legislator is getting to learn about a lot of the details that make up the funding patterns for state and local government. I had no idea about charges mandated to municipalities by the state in order to offset the cost of fire protection from a publically operated and regulated water district. Selectman Buccina brought this to my attention a couple of months ago when he asked why Rumford had to pay the water district a mandated fire protection charge that is governed by the Public Utilities Commission.

It was a great question, and I didn’t have the answer, so I set up a meeting with PUC staff to get some history and background on this charge. Selectman Buccina and I met with PUC staff on June 25th, and they were ready for us. It seems like we are not the first to raise this question and look for alternatives to this mandated charge.

Here are some of the things we learned:

• As far as the state is concerned fire protection is the main purpose for any municipal water system, with providing water for other uses (residential of commercial) are all secondary.
• Since fire protection is the primary rationale for creating, funding and regulating a municipal water system -- it must be built to produce flows that are adequate to meet fire protection demands -- and for small systems that means the total system is significantly “overbuilt” were it to be compared to a system just to deliver water to homes and businesses.
• The assessment to the municipality is based on a formula that has been developed over many years -- starting in 1888 -- with the most recent study finished in the late 1980’s. That resulted in Chapter 69 of the PUC rules which establishes the rate setting mechanisms for these charges.
• I’ve provided a very complete overview of the charges and how they have been determined, prepared by the PUC staff. It gives lots of detail about these charges and how they are governed.

Next steps:

The PUC does not seem ready to abandon this long held practice of charging a Public Fire Protection assessment to every municipality with a regulated water utility. In fact, just the opposite -- they are ready to defend this practice vigorously.

Here are our choices:

1. Take the information and drop the matter -- continuing to pay the fire protection assessment.
2. Look at alternative ways to evaluate the real cost / value of the fire protection assets, so that the annual payment reflects the actual associated costs. This approach has two downsides -- it will cost money to conduct such a study, and the study could actually raise the assessment rather than lower it.
3. Pursue a policy change that would create a new approach or formula for the allocation of fire protection assessments to municipalities. If that is your choice, I would be happy to work with you to put together legislation to accomplish this and sponsor that legislation. Let me observe, however, that this will likely be a contentious issue that could pit municipalities against one another. Most likely, depending upon what changes would be made, it would match bigger municipalities against smaller ones. Therefore, if you want to pursue policy changes, I suggest that you bring the matter up with the Maine Municipal Association and work through their Legislative Policy process.

I am happy to stick with this issue and process just as long as you want to. Let me know what you want to do and we’ll stay at work on the issue. You may want to review this material from the PUC in some detail and discuss this again at another time. We have several months before any legislative proposals would be submitted, so you can consider the approach with some tine. The way to succeed with a policy change in an area like this is to build some allies -- and that will mean close cooperation with other municipalities -- probably though MMA.

Selectman Buccina may have something to add -- so I’ll turn it over to him. Thank you for the opportunity to serve in this matter and at least get the ball rolling.

Remarks from the Denis Pratt ADA Awards

Yesterday marked the 20th Anniversary of the historic signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Here in Maine we marked the occasion in Bangor with the Denis Pratt ADA Awards presented by the Maine ADA Coalition and hosted by Husson University.

Founded in 2009 and led by Alpha One, Maine's Center for Independent Living, the Maine ADA Coalition is a group of non-profit organizations. The Coalition is involved in disability related information and services working together to create new opportunities for people with disabilities in Maine.

I was honored to be invited to speak at the event. Below is a copy of my remarks and an example of the press that followed.

Thank you for allowing me to celebrate today's historic occasion with you all.

As an Independent Living Specialist at Maine’s Center for Independent Living, as a Member of the Maine House of Representatives, and as someone with quadriplegia, I wish I could say that Maine leads the nation in accessibility... We don’t. In fact, we haven’t really surveyed accessibility in Maine on a large scale or formally. We’ve looked at pieces of the puzzle -- schools, public buildings, our court houses, parks, some businesses, places of public accommodation, our voting facilities -- all the things mandated under the ADA and other federal laws like HAVA (Help America Vote Act passed after the contested 2000 presidential vote). Denis Pratt -- who we remember today was involved in lots of this work.

Let me start with the good news part of this discussion. Our state government facilities have made the concerted effort to be accessible and they are to be commended in that regard. I have always found the public facilities in our Capitol complex to be fully accessible. The same is true for almost all the public facilities statewide. Although we’re not perfect, we’ve done a great job on the state and municipal government levels.

We’re winning that battle. And we are winning the battle with Maine businesses, too. Business people realize that access is good business. People with a disability are consumers, too. Good business is good business -- so the progress will continue.

But accessibility in Maine is a different story from that.

I can’t cite statistics -- and if I did it would be out of keeping with our celebration. Instead I want to share an experience which I am now repeating. Governor Baldacci can probably still remember his days as a member of the Maine Senate before he went on to serve with distinction in higher office -- both the US House of Representatives and the Blaine House -- and I am sure he remembers his many hours campaigning for the Maine Legislature.

Campaigning in Maine means “knocking on doors.” It means going door to door in the District, introducing yourself and asking people one on one to give you their vote. For elected officials, a vote is almost a sacred thing, and “the ask” is a great responsibility and a duty. I was struck by the weight of this duty two years ago when I made my first run for elected office, and I’m reminded of it every day as I campaign for re-election in November.

If knocking on doors is the essential task -- and it is -- what does that mean for me when the door is up a small flight of stairs?

From the perspective of a legislator -- and legislative candidate in a wheelchair Maine accessibility has a long way to go. Any person with a disability -- looking for an accessible place to live -- knows exactly what I am talking about. Any Maine family who is welcoming an elderly parent or a disabled family member into their home knows what I am talking about. Even one of my colleagues in the Legislature who had a skiing accident that left him temporarily with a mobility impair knows what I am talking about.

Having a disability is not a moral flaw or a mortal failure. It is not something that deserves discrimination or censure. My friends -- if you are lucky enough to live a very long life -- it is something you will most likely encounter. There is a point in a long life where we stop gaining facility and start losing it -- and that is unavoidable. If you live long enough -- you too will doubtless enter that category we call “people with a disability” because you need assistance with one or more activities of daily living.

In short -- we have a way to go -- especially when it comes to our homes. As I pointed out -- first things first -- but after 20 years, we should raise our expectations.

Alpha One has consistently helped people improve access. Sometimes we’ve done it with good technical assistance, sometimes with a key referral, and sometime with money to make an improvement. And we are making progress-- but we still have a long way to go. A good friend of mine is just finishing a 33 foot ramp that will allow me to get out of my car and roll up on his deck and the into his home. Great, but he talked about it for four years before he did it.

So today -- let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made. But let’s also be sure not to take our eyes off the ball. We’ve done a good job. We’ve made remarkable progress. We still have a long way to go. We need to keep working and this work will be generational in scope. I am glad we are here today and I especially want to thank Governor Baldacci for taking the time from his schedule to join us -- but let’s keep working. Making Maine the most accessible state in the nation sounds like a pretty good goal--and one worth pursuing.

Thank you again, and enjoy the celebration.

http://www.wabi.tv/news/13143/denis-pratt-ada-awards

Mixed Martial Arts bill goes into effect this week

AUGUSTA — A new law sponsored by Rep. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford, that clarifies the role of the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine went into effect as of Monday, July 12.

The new law as sponsored by Peterson, LD 1685, “An Act To Clarify the Enforcement Role of the Mixed Martial Arts Authority of Maine,” spells out the Authority’s role and duties and authorizes the board of directors of the Authority to conduct specific inspections of mixed martial arts competitions, exhibitions or events and enhances enforcement mechanisms of the board.

The new law also requires the Authority to adopt rules regarding the certification process for authorized participants and requires that a physician be present during each mixed marital arts competition, exhibition or event. It allows the board to discipline authorized participants if they fail to adhere to the rules adopted by the Authority and allows for fines up to $500 for each violation. It also extends the deadline for the Authority to adopt rules from March 1, 2010 to October 15, 2010.

These clarifications will expedite the increasingly popular sporting events to be held in the state, bringing revenue and entertainment to Maine’s citizens. If all goes as planned the first MMA event will be scheduled at the end of 2010 and will ensure the health and safety of the participants.

Mixed Martial Arts is a full combat contact sport, combining several different styles of fighting. In 2009 Peterson introduced a bill establishing the Mixed Martial Arts Authority to regulate and promote mixed martial arts competitions, exhibitions and events in Maine.

Recent plans to hold a boxing match in Lewiston brought to light the discovery that due to the abolishment of the Athletic Commission in 2007, boxing no longer has a governing body and is therefore illegal under a centuries old statute.

“I was dismayed to learn that boxing events cannot be held in Maine since they no longer have a regulating body,” said Peterson. “If reelected, I would love to work with the boxing community the same way I worked with mixed martial arts community, to change the statute, so that boxing events can once again be held in Maine.”

Bill to cover prosthetics signed into law

AUGUSTA – A bill, sponsored by Rep. Mark Bryant, D-Windham, and co-sponsored by Rep. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford, to require insurance plans to cover the latest prosthetic limbs was signed into law by Governor John Baldacci today. Under current law, health insurance carriers are required to provide coverage for prosthetic devices, but coverage is not required for those devices containing a microprocessor. The bill removes the exclusion for prosthetic devices that include a microprocessor.

“Microprocessors have become far more common and affordable,” said Bryant. “Most artificial limbs prescribed to amputees by doctors today have microprocessor chips in them. This bill is a needed step to bring the law covering artificial limbs up to date. At the public hearing we heard from dozens of people who utilized artificial limbs, they all testified that going from an older prosthetic to one that contained microprocessor technology had huge benefits for their health, mobility and overall quality of life.”

The original law requiring policies to cover prosthetic limbs was passed over a decade ago, when microprocessor technology was very new and expensive. Microprocessor chips are tiny computers embedded into the artificial limbs that allow them to move and react more like a real limb.

“Technology has continued to improve the lives of people living with a disability, and no place have these advances been more significant than in the development of sophisticated prosthetic devices that expand the capacity and independence of people who have lost a limb,” said Peterson. “This law is designed to do one simple thing--to make sure that insurers in our state will make available the most appropriate alternative available to those they cover. This is what we all expect when we purchase insurance, and we have the responsibility to ensure that these expectations are enshrined in our statutes and regulations. This is another important step in making sure the insurance climate in Maine strikes the proper balance.”

The bill, LD 20 “An Act To Require Insurance Companies To Cover the Cost of Prosthetics Containing Microprocessors,” passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.

Remarks at the Hope Association Annual Meeting May 18, 2010

On May 18th, 2010, I was honored to be featured as the Keynote Speaker at Hope Association's Annual Meeting.

For decades now, Hope Association has been providing top-quality services to individuals in the River Valley living with developmental disabilities. To learn more about Hope Association please visit their website at http://www.hopeassociation.org/.

Reprinted below is a copy of the remarks I offered at Hope Association's Annual Meeting:



It is truly a great honor to be invited to share this evening with you and to offer a few remarks. Having grown up in Rumford, I have long been aware of the great work that this organization has done on behalf of other Rumford citizens. You have been one of the real leaders in Maine in serving a very special population with creativity and dedication. It is a privilege to join you and a distinct honor to get a chance to talk with you tonight.

I have to admit that I’ve known about his speaking engagement for quite a while, and I’ve had lots of time to think about what to say -- which means I’ve had lots of time to worry over what I should say and do and how I could rise to the occasion of sharing my thoughts and my experience with a room full of such dedicated and caring people. What I mean to say is this -- What can I possibly say that would be worthwhile to such an audience? I’m truly humbled by this crowd and your record of service to our community.

Fortunately, having spent two years in Augusta, I’ve had plenty of experience observing people who are willing to talk at great length about things they know very little about -- so I certainly know how to “take the plunge!” Please don’t quote me to any of my Augusta colleagues -- although we’ve all been guilty at one time or another. I don’t want to dive in -- so I thought I’d talk about some of my own experiences and things that I do feel qualified to talk about.

I thought I’d take my few minutes tonight to consider some of the lessons I learned from the Legislature in the last session -- and some of the larger issues they suggest, including some of my life lessons. I’m the kind of guy who has to bring things down and internalize them -- apply them to my own life and experience to really understand them. I grasp things -- but to really understand them, I have to see ideas through the lens of my own life. I’m a pretty concrete thinker in that way -- it’s just the way I’ve always been made, and it has served me pretty well. I hope so anyway -- because I don’t imagine I’ll wake up tomorrow having become a theoretical astrophysicist overnight.

So, tonight I want to talk about two themes that came through over and over in the last session and that have larger implications for almost all we do. The themes are balance and resiliency. They are both pretty important ideas to me personally, and it seems like they are engines for this great organization, too.

First, balance. I’ve gotten a little bit of attention in the news recently for something that was almost accidental. As you may know, one of the initiatives I sponsored in the last session was a bill to sanction and regulate mixed martial arts events in Maine. I’m a huge fan of the sport. I was a wrestler in high school, and my younger brother was one of the greatest wrestlers to come out of Mountain Valley. He has continued to train and has become a mixed martial artist. I have friends who are fighters and trainers and promoters, and I wanted to bring the sport to Maine while making sure that there were standards and oversight to protect the health of all those involved in the sport.

I won’t go into a lot of detail about the mechanics of the legislation -- but we had to pass something because in 2007, the Maine legislature eliminated the Maine Athletic Commission that used to oversee professional boxing events. Apparently, it had been years since there was any boxing match scheduled, maintaining the Athletic Commission cost the state money, and so in 2007, the Legislature voted the Commission out of existence. Nobody came to testify against that action, there were no questions asked about the elimination of an organization that apparently had no function.

In 2009, we created a new regulatory body -- the Mixed Martial Arts Authority -- designed to oversee mixed martial arts or MMA events. The Governor appointed members to the Authority, they have been meeting and working on rules, and the first MMA contests will be held later this year. Here’s where the story gets complicated. I read an article in the Lewiston Sun Journal about the Gamache family planning to have a prize fight in June in Lewiston. I was at an MMA Authority meeting, sitting next to a representative from the Attorney General’s Office and asked him if he had seen the article. I was actually reading the article on line at the time. He said, he hadn’t seen it and would I send him the link. So I did -- with a simple question : Who is overseeing these fights?

To make a long story short, the Gamaches were eventually contacted, informed that the fight they had planned was illegal under a 19th century Maine statute and that they should consult a lawyer before they proceeded with the fight. Apparently, my question started a process that ended up with the Gamaches being “warned” against holding the event. Since then, I have been working to try to find a way to let this fight move ahead under emergency rules passed by the MMA Authority. Unfortunately, the AG’s office has vetoed the idea and so now it looks like the fights will have to be moved to next year after the Legislature can create a new statute allowing boxing to once again be sanctioned in Maine.

So -- what does this have to do with balance? Besides the fact that boxers need good balance. As you can imagine -- I have gotten a fair number of e-mails and calls from irate boxing fans who want to tell me how stupid the state is for eliminating the Athletic Commission -- WHAT WERE WE THINKING? My favorite was from a constituent that I hear from a lot. He has strong opinions about many things and I enjoy the exchanges because he is a thought-provoking, common sense fellow I have known all my life.

He let me have it in an e-mail. Augusta this, and Legislature that -- you get the idea. We were interfering where we had no business and so forth. Why I liked the e-mail so much was because I had gotten one from him just a few days before complaining about the way we “wasted money in Augusta” spending it on all kinds of unnecessary things -- bureaucracy that didn’t do anything, and on and on …..

I hadn’t had the chance to respond to that first e-mail, so they were both in my inbox, and ended up next to each other. I suppose you can see where I am going with this ….. How do we balance such competing interests? When the Legislature eliminates a Commission that was costing taxpayer dollars but hadn’t had any activity in years -- it looked like a good idea -- one he could certainly support. It was a good idea, until the Commission was needed to license a boxing match -- which he really wanted to attend. Tough to be a fan of less government, smarter budgeting and fiscal responsibility -- and still want all the services that government provides -- including regulating prize fighting.

It’s all about finding the balance between what we need, what we want and what we can afford.

That has been a big lesson for me serving the River Valley in the House of Representatives. How do we find that balance? Another way to think about it is -- how do we set the right priorities? As a member of the Health and Human Services Committee that was the stark lesson from every day’s sessions. There are so many valid, yet competing claims for the limited resources. Allocating those limited resources requires a real balancing act -- and lots of priority setting.

I wish I could come here tonight and say -- things in the next budget will be better, it will get easier, money that has been cut will be restored. But that is not the case. We will have even greater demands and even more fiscal constraints in the next session. In the last session, we were able to fill some of the gaps with the infusion of federal resources from the stimulus act. Those funds will not be available as we project the next two year budget. As a result, we can expect even more belt tightening, even more cut backs, and an even harder time trying to provide essential services to Maine’s most vulnerable citizens.

Sounds pretty bleak, doesn’t it?

So that brings me to my second theme for the evening -- Resilience. We not only need to keep our balance -- we need to find the ways to bounce back -- be resilient. I can tell you right now that there will be pressures on the state funding that Hope Association receives. That will be true of every health, human services or social services organization that receives state funding or state contracts. I don’t know what the pressure will look like -- but it will be coming. Guaranteed.

As someone who has lived with a disability for more than a decade -- I’ve learned firsthand the value of resilience. Without an ability to bounce back, I don’t know where I’d be. That same resilience is characteristic in the lives of so many of the individuals and families that your organization so ably serves. Resilience is what we do -- and what we will be called upon to do even more if we are to continue to serve.

But even before my injury, resilience is something that I learned growing up in the River Valley. We’re a place and a people who come back. We’ve seen difficult economic times -- and we are still seeing them. We’ve seen big changes at the mill and in the paper and woods industry -- but we know how to bounce back.

Resiliency requires some creativity. After my injury I had to learn lots of new ways to do things I had been doing all my life. In hindsight, I realize I had to unlearn a number of things -- old patterns, old ways of doing things that just didn’t work anymore because of my changed circumstances. Being creative, learning new approaches became a lot easier when I finally let go of some of the patterns that had dominated my life. The key to resilience is that ability to let go of old patterns that may have worked well in the past, but have a more limited application in the future. Tough to let go of things that have served us well -- but it is necessary to face the new challenges.

For an organization like Hope Association that is all about promoting resilience for individuals and their families -- I know you can and will rise to the challenge. You have got to find new ways to reach out and to serve, even in an era of fewer resources. You will have to find new ways to help families become more resilient, more independent and more creative as we all struggle to do more with fewer resources.

We have a lot going for us. The River Valley is a strong community of neighbors and friends. We have a tradition of caring and looking out for each other. Hope Association is a perfect example of that spirit. And we have a history of picking ourselves up and moving forward despite setbacks.

Now is the time to start exercising those creative muscles. Go back to the roots of the organization and look for new ways to accomplish your goals. Prepare now for the changes that are coming -- don’t wait to be overwhelmed by them. This is a strong and vital organization -- and its true vitality will be found in its resiliency in this changing environment. Don’t just react to the change -- lead the change.

Speaking to an organization with a name -- Hope Association -- you cannot deliver anything but an upbeat message. Yes, times ahead will be challenging. My commitment to you is that I will work as hard as I can to find balance and help the state set the right priorities between supporting programs that people depend upon, and operating in the most cost-effective manner possible.

I hope you will work with me in seeking that balance -- with your good ideas, your thoughtful analysis of alternatives, and your commitment to resiliency. Together, we will find a way to continue the outstanding record of service that has characterized Hope Association for decades.

Thank you for the opportunity to be here tonight. I look forward to working with you individually and as an organization. Thanks again.

The 124th Legislative Session -- Impacts to the River Valley

Now that the 124th Legislative session has been adjourned for a couple of weeks, the dust is starting to settle and it seems a good time to take stock of what happened during the session and how the decisions made in Augusta may impact the River Valley. I’ve spent the last week reviewing the Legislative summaries and talking to leaders in government, business and social services in our communities to measure the outcomes from the work in Augusta in 2010. First, I want to thank all the people who took the time to talk with me about how the legislative session will likely impact our community.

Budget Concerns

Overall impressions are that the session was a difficult one -- but the results were better than anyone really expected based on the first projections of the state’s fiscal situation and the expected budget impacts. To put this in some context -- the supplemental budget passed for the fiscal year that will begin on July 1 of this year is roughly equivalent to the budget passed for the first year of the Baldacci administration -- eight years ago. Given the cumulative rate of inflation over those eight years -- this means that the new budget is a reduction of approximately 20% in real dollars over that period. Inflation in areas like energy and health care costs was higher than 20% over this period, and since a larger portion of the state budget is devoted to such areas, the overall reduction in real state spending may be greater than the 20% would indicate.

In short, we once again met the constitutional mandate to provide a balanced budget and we did that by making significant cuts to programs and restructuring other efforts. There were no broad based tax increases, nor were there any real “budget gimmicks” that would book significant one-time savings. As a result, the Legislature passed a strongly bi-partisan budget that was supported by all the members of the Appropriations Committee and large majorities in both the House and Senate.

We had some help in solving the problems in this budget cycle that may not be available next year, so everyone is already preparing for a difficult budget session next year. One of the biggest aids in resolving the budget shortfall was the infusion of additional federal dollars -- particularly in the area of health and human services that came from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 that provided stimulus funds in a number of areas. These funds filled some gaps, but they will not be available for the next budget cycle so additional cuts may have to be made if the economy continues to lag.

Many of the River Valley leaders I spoke with left the impression that we did about the best we could, having been dealt a bad hand. Financial impacts were kept to a minimum, but there will be some real changes as a result of this year’s budget.

First, state aid to education will be reduced to RSU 10 by approximately $1 million or a little more than 3%. While this is not as bad as was first projected since close to $350,000 was added back near the end of the session—this will still mean either cuts to the budget or an increase in local share, or both. School leaders have developed new budget proposals based on these changes, and we will all feel the impacts -- in the classrooms and in our tax bills.

The towns were similarly affected with reduction is Revenue Sharing. For example, Rumford will see Revenue Sharing drop from approximately $1.1 million to about $800,000, with the $315,000 needing to be made up through reduced services or increased revenues. Compared to the reductions for other municipalities, it could have been worse, but it is still a reduction in resources from the state to assist Rumford citizens.

The agencies that serve River Valley citizens in meeting their physical and mental health needs were very concerned at the start of this year’s session. Most already felt they did not have the resources to meet the needs of people in our community and the initial rounds of cuts would have eliminated so much support that many programs risked being discontinued entirely. A few services may well be curtailed in the River Valley, but in the short term both our institutional and community based services will remain intact. Providers are bracing for deeper cuts in the next session and are already working to find creative ways to do more with the diminishing resources. Having served on the Health and Human Services Committee in the last session, I was very engaged in these issues and I understand many of the challenges on the road ahead.

Jobs and Development

There were a number of initiatives that could have major impacts -- both positive and negative -- on jobs and economic growth in the River Valley. Fortunately most of the news in this area was positive. For example, one bill involving the use of bonded Canadian labor in wood harvesting could have had the impact of raising the overall cost of raw materials for the mill. The bill would have impacted the cost of timber throughout Maine’s wood-basket, potentially impacting the Mill, local loggers, and landowners. Fortunately, a compromise was reached that will mitigate most negative impacts.

Other similar issues, including those to balance the needs of workers and the needs of businesses were carefully considered as we work together to restore Maine’s economic health and vitality. Many of these issues come up almost every session, so we can expect that the dialogue will continue in future Legislatures. Finding a balance is always a key.

Energy and Windpower

At the end of the session, a bill was passed that enables local areas to have a greater say in the development of energy corridors. This can be an important opportunity for the River Valley since we live in an area with existing and emerging energy resources. Our gas fired generation facility, permitted and proposed wind energy facilities, our hydro resources, the potential for bio-mass co-generation, as well as our proximity to Hydro Quebec power resources all make the River Valley an energy gateway. This new energy corridor legislation may create opportunities for citizens and businesses to work together on initiatives to build new employment in our region.

Windpower continues to be an important topic, and initiatives will likely emerge in the upcoming Legislative session to continue to look at permitting and health issues related to the operation of these facilities. Although major legislative initiatives were not considered in the last session, they will certainly be on the agenda in the upcoming session, with the goal being an evidence-based approach to permitting new land based wind facilities to insure that they do not have unwarranted impacts on the health and safety of local citizens. These topics are sure to lead to lively discussion and exchanges -- and hopefully some sound policy judgments in Augusta.

Looking Back

Veteran legislators tell me it is a lot easier to serve when you can carry home good news to your community rather than bad news. This was not the year for funding new projects or new initiatives. This was a session to look carefully at expenditures and set priorities for our hard earned tax dollars. Next session promises to be more of the same -- maybe even tougher. I appreciate all the ideas and input from people in the River Valley -- before, during, and after the session. I want to keep up the conversation and if I am fortunate enough to return to represent you in the 125th Legislature, I will need that input even more. Thank you again for the opportunity of a lifetime to represent the River Valley in the Maine Legislature.

Roll Call Voting Percentage for the 124th

Last week the official Roll Call Voting Percentages for the 124th Maine Legislature were released. For the Second Regular Session of the term I had a 100% attendance record. My overall attendance record for the First and Second Regular Sessions combined was 96%. Unfortunately, during the First Regular Session I was absent during a day and a half in the six-month schedule and missed a few votes. The days I missed were during a trip to California to lobby a prominent promotions company to bring their business to our state as a part of the legislative initiative I sponsored to sanction mixed martial arts in Maine. It was worth missing those votes since during the trip I received a commitment directly from the company’s President that they would work hand-in-hand with us to bring their brand to Maine generating a potential for millions of dollars in new business revenues.

Two people rarely—if ever—align perfectly on every issue in life. Ideas and opinions are as varied as the constellation of bills that are brought forward by the thousands in almost every legislative session. I would never pretend that every single person in District 92 will agree with every vote I cast in the 124th Legislature. If that were the case, we wouldn’t be an independent and passionate part of the world. I intend to continue to show up for every vote -- because the River Valley deserves a strong voice for all the issues we face as a state.

One thing that almost all of us in the River Valley can agree on is working hard and remaining committed to a goal. When you sent me to Augusta, my goal was to show up every day and fight for the jobs and systems change we need in order to have a successful Western Maine way of life. I believe my attendance record reflects the consistency that I see all around me every day in the hard working men and women of our community, and I hope you feel the same way. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent our area in Augusta.

Josh Thornton, state wrestling champion, honored at the State House

AUGUSTA - Rep. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford, recently presented Josh
Thornton, of Rumford, with a special legislative sentiment honoring his
first place finish at the 2010 Class B Wrestling State Championship in
the 140-pound weight division.

"Josh's path to a state championship was not without its challenges this season. He sustained losses along the way, but he learned from those lessons and applied all of that knowledge to go all the way when it counted," said Peterson. "And he's not done yet, Josh is only a junior this year and we just recently learned that he was invited to participate in the prestigious Maine-Nebraska wrestling exchange, so you can bet that this experience out west will help to prepare him to repeat the performance next year."

Thornton began his wrestling career in the first grade and was a New England Champion in the second grade. In the eighth grade, he went undefeated all the way to a state title. As a sophomore, he won the Western Class B Regional competition, placed fourth at the state championships and the Eastern National Tournament. He had a 34-4 record during the season he earned his state title, placing first at the prestigious Redskin Invitational Tournament, the Mid-State Championship and the Western Class B Regional Tournament.

Peterson noted that wrestling is a family affair in the Thornton household when he pointed out that Josh's younger brother, Jake, competes for the Mountain Valley Middle School wrestling team. Josh and Jake's father, Joe, was one of Peterson's middle school wrestling coaches. A patient teacher as well as a fierce competitor, Joe has passed his will-to-win along to his sons who have been making good on a family commitment to excellence.

"I wish Josh and Jake continued success, and congratulate a proud mother and father that will be cheering them along all the way," said Peterson.

Some Reflections on Legislative Service

Commuting from Rumford to Augusta for my Legislative duties gives me a chance to reflect on the nature of this public service -- especially because there are a number of spots where there is no cell coverage, so I can’t talk on the phone. First, I am overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude to my fellow River Valley residents for having the opportunity to serve you in Augusta for the last two years. The work has been challenging, filled with both disappointments and rewards, but the best part of this service has been the opportunity to deepen my relationship with so many of my neighbors.

My favorite part of the process is about to start, as the session winds down and I get the chance to get out in the community, talk with voters and discuss issues. Two years ago, I travelled throughout District 92 in order to introduce myself, listen to concerns and begin shaping the approach I have used in serving in the House of Representatives on your behalf. I have already started that process again and I hope to catch you home so we can talk as I travel throughout the District over the next few months.

The biggest lesson that I have learned in these last two years of service is that staying in touch and listening is the most important things I can do. There are plenty of jokes about politicians -- and spending as much time as I do in Augusta, I sometimes can understand why. By and large, I spend my time with many men and women who are truly committed to serving their communities -- and they are the best members of the Legislature. Regardless of party affiliation or ideology, the appetite to serve and the willingness to listen and work on behalf of constituents is what separates the best legislators from the people putting in their time or pushing an ideological agenda.

My job over the last two years has been challenging, but it has been made easier by your support, encouragement and -- most importantly -- your ideas and opinions. Hearing from you, keeping in touch allows me to stay grounded in the real concerns of people in the River Valley. That is the key to my being able to represent this area to the best of my abilities. The next session promises to be even more challenging and if I am fortunate enough to continue to represent the River Valley, I will need even more dialogue with my constituents. Over the next few months, I hope we can step up the dialogue. I am only able to be effective if I can hear your voice.

Transparency and access are keys to this process. Maine provides good access to the work of the legislature -- audio of every committee hearing and work session is streamed live on the internet and available. The discussions and activities in the House and Senate Chambers provide both live streamed audio and video when we are in session. A number of folks in the River Valley have commented positively to me about these features.

Finally, your voice is the heart of our democracy, and I want to do all I can to get your ideas and opinions. Over the last two years, I have used every means I can to reach out -- but I intend to keep getting better. So let me hear from you. You can find me on Facebook, contact me on Twitter, e-mail me at petersonhouse08@gmail.com, or call me at (207) 776-8051.

Our conversation and your input is vital as I continue to represent the interests of the River Valley in Augusta. I’ll look forward to continuing the dialogue.

Floor Remarks: LD 1360

On April 7th, 2010, LD 1360 "An Act To Allow Law Enforcement and Family Members To Petition the District Court To Initiate Assisted Outpatient Treatment", came to the floor of the House of Representatives. Reprinted below are the comments I made on the record from the floor:

Madame Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House...

I speak today in opposition to the pending motion, with great respect for my colleagues on the Health and Human Services Committee that are on the current report in front of us.

LD 1360 is a bill which was extensively discussed in the Health and Human Services Committee and resulted in a divided report with two very different amendments which reflect two different approaches to a complex issue -- the best way to treat Maine citizens with a psychiatric disability in a community setting.

The subject at hand is the use of the Progressive Treatment Program or PTP which has been court-ordered outpatient treatment, typically under very close supervision, as a means of providing treatment and support for a person with a significant psychiatric disorder. This Progressive Treatment Program approach was originally enacted as a pilot several years ago with a sunset provision for July of this year.

Should we fail to act on this matter, the Progressive Treatment Program will be curtailed and a tool that has proved valuable to some individuals will no longer be available. Acting to maintain this out-patient treatment tool seems to be reasonable -- for it provides additional alternatives for individuals who are dealing with the impacts of a psychiatric disability.

Where the committee disagreed, and we split on a 9 to 5 vote, was regarding what approach to take. Committee Amendment B, which was the minority report that I supported, essentially leaves the existing program intact, extends the sunset provision until July 1, 2014, and calls for additional review and analysis of the effectiveness of the Progressive Treatment Program -- with a report due to the Committee in January of 2012.

Committee Amendment A describes a number of new elements in the Progressive Treatment Program, and expands both the mandatory nature of this out-patient treatment regime, the people who can order participation in the program, as well as the nature of that participation. In our debate today you have heard people speak about what they perceive as the advantages of these expansions of both mandatory participation and the people who can direct such participation. I will not comment extensively on the details of the approach because I did not support it. Frankly, I was not convinced in Committee or by the debate on the floor that the additional mandated elements would improve outcomes for the individuals or the community. While I think that a Progressive Treatment Program is another valuable tool in helping Maine citizens manage a psychiatric disability, I was concerned that the new elements have expanded the program in ways that could have unintended negative consequences. If you read the language and see the number of caveats, protections and limitations -- it becomes clear very quickly that we are on a slippery slope. I prefer to go slow on any mandated interventions that can deprive people of their freedom to choose.

All of us have encountered the impacts of psychiatric disability in our communities, perhaps in our own families. I am glad it no longer carries the stigma it once had, and that folks with a psychiatric disability are now able to be integrated into our communities and live productive and fulfilling lives. In my career as someone who encourages independent living for people with all types of disabilities -- physical, sensory, cognitive, or psychiatric -- I have worked closely with people who have made great strides in living as independently as possible. Providing the tools for that independence is the key to me. Community based service alternatives are essential -- but so is the freedom to choose the appropriate alternative. I am concerned that the majority report tips the delicate balance in the wrong direction on this matter of personal autonomy. Providing resources is essential, mandating the use of those resources … I am just not sure.

This discussion is a variation on a theme we often discuss in this Chamber and have for many, many years. How do we strike the balance between protecting the community and the individual, and giving individuals control, and the right to decide and even “the right to make the wrong decision?” There are some debates that come around over and over -- making helmets mandatory for all motorcycle riders -- there are always passionate voices and good arguments on both sides. Some of my colleagues would, no doubt, be happy to regulate a number of the behaviors that we know are “bad for us” like tobacco use. We always balance that in allowing for personal decision-making and autonomy. We must think long and hard when we tip that balance and take away people’s autonomy.

This body always struggles to find the balance -- and so we must here. This is another instance where we must find the “sweet spot” -- the point at which we encourage behaviors that are healthy and appropriate, without eliminating an individual’s autonomy. The sweet spot is hard to find on this issue -- because it is complex. How wide are our community norms? Where does behavior cross the line into being inappropriate? Who will be the keepers of those norms? Who decides? What is the basis for the decision? Should an ACT Team (Assertive Community Treatment Team) made up of a psychiatrist, a mental health nurse, licensed Master’s level clinicians, and counselors/case managers be the decision makers? Maybe the head of a psychiatric hospital? Or the Commissioner of Health and Human Services? Should it be a law enforcement officer who has information from a concerned family member? This proposal, even in its latest amended form introduces many more players and many more complexities into the mandating of treatments -- even in a community setting. It is not a responsibility I would personally welcome -- I know that. Do we really want to create this unwieldy system that can ultimately deprive an individual of his or her autonomy and decision-making?

I have not been convinced that a case has been made to expand the ways that a Progressive Treatment Program can be mandated -- without significant consequences for an individual living independently in the community. We need to maintain this tool, but we need to proceed with greater caution before we do anything that may take away the liberty or the autonomy of a person with a disability -- including a psychiatric disability -- no matter how good our motives may be. In this case, I am convinced that the motives behind the bill are well-intentioned. It is what is not intended, and the impact those unintended consequences may have on the lives of our fellow citizens -- that concerns me.

This vote will be a matter of conscience and one where we each weigh our values and our beliefs. I will continue to be voting against the majority report, Committee Amendment A as amended by the other body, and urge the more restrained approach taken by the minority of the HHS Committee in Committee Amendment B. I hope you will join me in rejecting the current motion, so we can have the opportunity to consider and pass Committee Amendment B and maintain this important tool for community based out-patient mental health services without unduly expanding its scope in a way that could undermine the autonomy of some of Maine’s vulnerable citizens.

Thank you, Madame Speaker.

124th Maine State Legislature Winds Down

No legislative activity is more demanding than the discussions surrounding the passing of the state’s budget. It is a particularly thankless task in a year such as this one, when adjustments must be made and programs must be reduced or eliminated to produce a balanced budget against the backdrop of declining revenues as a result of the national economic downturn.

The good news is -- this year the Legislature produced such an austerity budget by making the difficult choices of program reductions rather than resulting to tax increases or budget gimmicks. Legislators from both parties worked together, using the blueprint provided by Governor Baldacci to produce a final state budget that will be approximately $2.69 billion. To put that in context, the budget ten years earlier was $2.65 billion. The rate of inflation over those ten years exceeded 20% -- and many elements of the state budget -- such as energy costs or health insurance increased at an even faster rate.

This year’s budget contains some hard choices -- but they mirror the difficult choices and priorities that almost every Maine family has been making for the last few years. Having served on the Health and Human Services Committee, one of the areas that took the largest cuts to the budget, I understood in detail what the choices meant for some of Maine’s most vulnerable citizens. At that same time, the ongoing conversations with neighbors in the River Valley kept me focused on the need to manage this budget shortfall without raising taxes or fees.

In the end, the budget was an opportunity for the Legislature to come together. It was supported by strong bi-partisan majorities -- 110 to 35 in the House of Representatives and 31 to 2 in the State Senate. There were a few people who felt the proposals went too far, or not far enough, but overall the package was balanced and supported by the leadership of both chambers and both political parties.

Moments such as the passage of the budget are hopeful ones -- because they suggest we are not bound to partisan bickering and political game-playing. If there is one thing I hear over and over from the people of District 92 it is this message -- get the job done and don’t play politics. It is easy to stand on the sidelines and complain or second-guess. It is easy to criticize “Augusta” without offering realistic alternatives. However, at the end of the day, the Maine Legislature is full of serious people -- committed men and women who want to serve their communities and do so with the best intentions and information that is available. This budget process was an example of the best of our system -- working.

No one decided to obstruct the process or say “No” just for the sake of saying “No.” Members worked thousands of hours, together, to find the best possible alternatives and approaches that would balance the needs of our state and its citizens against the realities of our economic conditions. I was honored to join with so many of my colleagues to support this budget. It was not perfect, it did not do everything that I wanted to see, but it is a practical and workable solution to our current situation.

One major challenge resolved -- and only a few more until we adjourn in a matter of days. However, the work for next year is already beginning because we will be facing a similar budget shortfall of hundreds of millions of dollars, and we must maintain the balance of fiscal discipline and targeted services for Maine citizens.

Over the next few months, I will once again be calling on my neighbors in the River Valley, listening to your concerns and trying to learn how I can best serve you should I be fortunate enough to continue to earn your vote and your confidence. You can be sure that I will continue to work on initiatives that will keep our state’s finances strong, our taxes low, and our money producing real value in the areas of education, health and safety.

Rep. Peterson remembers J. Eugene Boivin

AUGUSTA – Reps. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford, and Sheryl Briggs, D-Mexico, honored the memory of Joseph Eugene Boivin, a lifelong resident of Rumford, with a legislative sentiment adopted by the House Thursday. Mr. Boivin passed away in January, 2010.

Mr. Boivin was born and raised in Rumford, graduated from Stephens High School, married his sweetheart, Geraldine “Gerry” DuPaul, and had one son and daughter. He was a professional firefighter for over 30 years with the Rumford Fire Department, retiring in 1989 as Fire Chief.

“Mr. Bovin was always up to something good, something designed to serve his neighbors and the town that he loved,” said Peterson. “With his bare hands, his huge heart, and a vision for what our community could be, Eugene, both literally and figuratively, helped to build Rumford into the unique part of the world that we are today.”

During his career, he served six years in the Army National Guard, was elected to the MSAD 43 school board and served as Rumford town selectman. Due to Mr. Boivin’s dedication to his community, including recently volunteering countless hours to help families build their own homes with Community Concepts, he was named Rumford’s Citizen of the Year and received the Volunteer of the Year award by the River Valley Chamber of Commerce.

"When Gene set his mind to something, he did it and he did it with passion and love!” said Briggs. “He has touched so many lives and as I thought about what he as done over the years, he had a hand in just about everything and his presence will be remembered and felt for many years to come."

Boivin is survived by his wife, brother, sisters, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Full remarks from Rep. Peterson can be found below.

House Sentiment for Joseph Eugene Boivin -- Remarks by Representative Matt Peterson


One of the real treats of Legislative service is having the opportunity to hear at every one of our sessions sentiments expressed for outstanding achievements and lives well lived. Nothing is more inspiring than when the House presents a sentiment acknowledging someone from our own community and our own history. It's a privilege today to add a word or two to this tribute to Mr. Boivin.

When you grow up in a small town you become aware of what’s happening all around you -- both good and bad -- even if you cannot understand the details. Activities and people reoccur constantly, and you catch sight of them almost wherever you go, always noticing them out of the corner of your eye. School events, community events, town events -- some folks are always there and always making things happen. As a young person, you become aware when people are up to something -- and Mr. Boivin was always up to something. What he was always up to was something good, something designed to serve his neighbors and the town that he loved. Fire Chief, Selectman, School Board Member, Tireless Volunteer. With his bare hands, his huge heart, and a vision for what our community could be--Eugene, both literally and figuratively, helped to build Rumford into the unique part of the world that we are today.

Maine towns are blessed to have these citizens like this and Rumford was particularly fortunate to have Mr. Boivin who was on just about every corner where there was something that needed to be done, or someone who needed to be helped, or a problem that needed a common sense solution. A life of service, like that of Mr. Boivin, inspires the next generation to pick up the work and continue the service. My world had been and was continuing to be forged by the care and service of Mr. Boivin’s life, and I understand a little better now what his positive energy meant for my town as I was growing up. It is the spirit that is the best of Rumford -- and I want to add my deepest appreciation to his wife Gerry and brother Arthur, who are here with us today, for the great example he was to his friends and neighbors -- and all the people of the River Valley who had a chance to see him in action. He is fondly remembered and will be missed. He touched many lives in many ways -- and I am proud to acknowledge the many ways in which he touched my life, too.