Maine Nursing Homes Facing Closure, Elderly At Risk

Governor provides funding solution in emergency bill

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage will propose emergency legislation to immediately fund Maine’s nursing facilities, some of which are in jeopardy of closure. Governor LePage will send the bill to lawmakers Thursday, May 1, when they reconvene at the State House prior to adjourning the 126th Second Regular Session.

Maine nursing homes are struggling, and some are on the brink of shutting down. According to Rick Erb, chief executive officer of the Maine Health Care Associationundefinedan organization that represents 101 of the State’s nursing homesundefinedfunding is not adequate. “It is well documented that Maine under-reimburses its nursing homes by over $22 million per year already, threatening their viability,” he stated. “We believe this to be penny wise and pound foolish.”

The Governor’s bill will allocate funds for nursing homes from a one-time disbursement of tobacco settlement money (State of Maine v. Philip Morris, et al., Kennebec County Superior Court, Docket No. CV-97-134).

The Governor vetoed a bill (LD 1719) that would have used those funds for “pilot projects” and “outreach campaigns”, most of which could be funded with other grants. His veto message states:

There are nursing homes in Maine that are on the verge of imminent shutdown due to the decade-long failure of the Legislature to adequately fund them. They need funding now, not tomorrow, and not starting in June of 2015, which is when the Legislature’s proposed budget would start increasing their funding. The funding stream attached to this bill should be used to fund the pressing priorities of keeping the doors open at Maine’s nursing homes, as well as increasing adult day services, which help to keep seniors in their homes for longer. It’s time we figure out our prioritiesundefineda vote to override this veto is a vote to close nursing facilities.

“Our elderly and disabled should not be forced to live in fear of knowing if they will have a place to call home tomorrow, said Governor LePage. “I simply will not stand for this and it’s why I have provided a solution to pay our nursing homes to keep our most vulnerable Mainers safe.”

Governor Finds Funding to Pay For New Drug Enforcement Agents, Judges, Prosecutors

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage will propose emergency legislation to fund his initiative to fight drug crime by adding Maine Drug Enforcement Agents, judges and prosecutors, which was a major initiative he outlined in his State of the State Address.

“Although my proposal was widely supported, it died when the Appropriations Committee failed to fund it,” said the Governor. “But this issue is much too important to let die. I am pleased that we have found the funding to help combat the drug epidemic that is ravaging our state. We cannot wait any longer. We must act now to crack down on drug dealers and make our streets safe for Maine families.”

The Governor will propose using revenue in the Unclaimed Property Fund account to pay for LD 1811, “An Act to Appropriate and Allocate Funds to Strengthen the State’s Efforts to Investigate, Prosecute and Punish Persons Committing Drug Crimes.” LD 1811 would add 10 new MDEA agents, two new District Court judges, deputy marshals and assistant clerks, and two prosecutors in the Attorney General’s office.

In addition, the bill would provide $750,000 to augment existing drug addiction treatment programs. The total cost of the proposal is about $2.5 million.

The proposal initially had broad bipartisan support in the Legislature, and it won endorsement from the judicial branch and law enforcement agencies across the state.

Putting Photos on EBT Cards Will Cut Down on Welfare Abuse

There is no denying it. Mainers know there is misuse and abuse within the welfare system.

Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.

Liberal politicians are out of touch. They claim that welfare fraud is a victimless crime. They ignore the facts about rampant welfare fraud in our State. Maine taxpayers are demanding accountability in our entitlement programs, but liberals rejected our common-sense welfare reforms.

We can’t wait for liberals to wake up to reality. We can’t waste time playing games with Washington, D.C. We are taking action. We have already started cracking down on welfare fraud because we know how important it is to ensure your taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately.

This week, our Administration began putting photos on EBT cards. Two states already do this, Massachusetts and New York. Both are very liberal states that are ruled by progressive Democrats. Even they recognize the value of doing this.

We applaud the efforts of those states, but we want to avoid the errors they made in putting photos on EBT cards. To get started, we developed a pilot program in the Bangor office of DHHS. This will help us make any adjustments and corrections to our program before we implement the program statewide.

We are confident this will enhance the integrity of the EBT program. It will give us the ability to identify and prosecute EBT abuse and drug trafficking cases. EBT cards are often traded as currency, and EBT cards have been seized during drug busts.

On Friday, Gorham Police arrested a woman who was on probation for drug trafficking. She had her own EBT card and had been using three EBT cards that did not belong to her. Two of those cards belonged to people in jail.

Then on Saturday, Gorham Police arrested a man who was out on bail for sex trafficking. He had also been using the three EBT cards that did not belong to him.

Earlier in April, Saco Police arrested a man accused of offering to sell the remaining $70 on his EBT card for $35 outside Shaw’s Supermarket.

We have real evidence of the problem. Misuse and abuse of EBT cards is not anecdotal. Liberal politicians and federal agents are trying to prevent us from cracking down on welfare fraud and abuse. They will not stop us. As your Governor, I will keep doing what is right for hard-working Maine taxpayers. I will keep fighting to fix the welfare system.

Our Administration has teamed up with law enforcement to enact welfare reform. DHHS met with the Maine Chiefs of Police Association to help them coordinate efforts with fraud investigators to identify welfare misuse and abuse.  

As part of this effort, DHHS has created a new hotline that is designated specifically for law enforcement officials to report EBT abuse.

Liberals are free to believe welfare fraud is a victimless crime. I know better, and you know better. As long as I am your Governor, I will not let Maine taxpayers be victimized by waste, fraud and abuse in our welfare system.

 

Maine's Job Bank Listing more than 8,000 Real, Local Jobs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 28, 2014 Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, 207-621-5009 AUGUSTAundefinedEmployers last week listed more new jobs than they closed out on the Maine Job Bank at http://www.mainecareercenter.com , bringing the total number of jobs available to more than 8,000. The Job Bank, a service of the Maine Department of Labor, is a no-cost online job board that serves both employers and job seekers. “Maine has seen 9,100 private-sector jobs created since March 2013," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Whether you are seeking a part-time job or a full-time professional occupation, you will find it listed on the Maine Job Bank. CareerCenters continue to play a big role in helping Mainers find work, and I encourage employers and job seekers to reach out to our staff for assistance.” More than 8,000 positions are currently available, from entry level to professional, with small and large employers throughout the state. These include jobs with River City Commercial Cleaning of Bangor, Tyler Technologies of Falmouth and WEX of South Portland. Occupational categories with the most current openings are Construction and Extraction Occupations with 1,704, Transportation and Material Moving Occupations with 1,413 and Sales and Related Occupations with 1,407. Jobs are filled and posted every day by Maine employers and dedicated staff at the Department of Labor. The team at the Department of Labor reviews each employer who registers and their respective postings before activating the job live on the site. CareerCenter staff follow up with employers after two weeks to review the listing's response, make any adjustments or take the listing down once filled. No job listing on the Maine Job Bank is older than 90 days. CareerCenters offer a variety of workshops and services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O*Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge. Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Healthy Community Coalition Mobile Health Unit Events

May schedule announced

Farmington¾

Healthy Community Coalition of Greater Franklin County announces its May schedule for Mobile Health Unit outreach events. Services offered include body composition analysis; blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose checks; cancer prevention, nutrition, physical activity and tobacco information; and information and assistance enrolling in the Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program, the Affordable Healthcare Act Health Insurance Marketplace, and other health assistance programs.

 

HCC’s trained staff can assist individuals through one-on-one health counseling to make steps toward improving their health.

 

Body composition analysis is an excellent tracking tool for weight loss, and fitness and nutrition programs. The analyzer can track various components such as changes in muscle and fat tissue, and physical fitness improvements.

 

The Mobile Health Unit will be offering health screenings at the following location and times:

Robin’s Flower Pot in Farmington, Saturday, May 3 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Food City in Livermore Falls, Monday, May 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

IGA in Rangeley, Wednesday, May 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fotter’s Market in Stratton, Thursday, May 8 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tranten’s Market in Kingfield, Thursday, May 8 from 1-3 p.m.

Edmund’s Market in Phillips, Monday, May 12 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

White Elephant in Strong, Monday, May 12 from 1-3 p.m.

Farmington Save-A-Lot, Tuesday, May 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

East Dixfield Fire Department, Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

 

All services are provided free. Donations are accepted. For more information please contact Janis Walker at 779-2750 or jwalker@fchn.org.

 

First Lady Ann LePage To Ride In The Patriot Riders' “Spring Ride For The Troops”

AUGUSTA –  Maine’s First Lady Ann LePage will show her unyielding support of Maine’s military members and their families by participating in the Patriot Riders of Maine, Chapter 1’s 7th Annual “Spring Ride For The Troops” this Sunday, April 27, 2014. The motorcycle procession will leave the York American Legion Post #56 at 10:45 a.m. and travel to Bentley’s Saloon on Route 1 in Arundel. Once the motorcyclists arrive, opening ceremonies will begin, and First Lady Ann LePage will offer her remarks as this year’s guest speaker.

“It’s a true pleasure for me to be a part of this event,” Mrs. LePage said. “Military service men and women and their families have a special place in my heart, and I want to do anything and everything I can to show my support for them and my gratitude for their service.”

The Patriot Riders of Maine Chapter 1 is a non-profit corporation whose mission is dedicated to providing local veterans and their families, as well as first responders and those in need in the community, with support and assistance for any need that presents itself. Last year’s Spring Ride for the Troops raised over $15,000. The Patriot Riders of Maine Chapter 1 donated nearly $23,000 to the veterans, first responders and members of their community in 2013.

Governor Highlights “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day”

April 24, 2014

For Immediate Release: Thursday, April 24
Contact: Adrienne Bennett, Press Secretary, 207-287-2531

AUGUSTA – The LePage Administration today participated in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day with hundreds youngsters joining Governor Paul R. LePage at the State House for a special ceremony. Governor LePage spoke with nearly 200 girls and boys, varying in ages from 9 to 15, encouraging them to take the opportunity to learn more about state government.

“I hope each of you has the opportunity to explore what types of career paths are available in state government,” said the Governor. “For those interested in biology, accounting, education and much more, there is something for you in one of our many state departments and agencies.”

For more than 20 years, individuals, families, organizations and workplaces have joined in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day to broaden career opportunities of millions of girls and boys.

“As children begin to think about their future career paths, it’s important for parents, mentors and teachers to provide them ways to learn what they are most passionate about. One of the best gifts we can give our children is someone who can show them their potential and let them know that a job can be something they love to do,” said Governor LePage.

Staff of the Office of the Governor and their children had an opportunity to meet with Governor LePage; receive a State House tour; interview staff members; and have lunch with the Governor and First Lady Ann LePage at the Blaine House. During the afternoon, Molly McGough, Vanessa Steele, Jacob Nass and Katelin Bennett assisted the Governor’s communications team in writing this news release by offering quotes of their own:

“I loved meeting with people who are passionate about their jobs and politics. Today inspired me to pursue a career as a politician,” said Molly McGough, 14, daughter of Chief of Staff John McGough. “I really enjoyed having lunch and speaking with the Governor and First Lady at the Blaine House. We were also given a tour, and I learned about the history of the mansion,” said Vanessa Steele, 10, daughter of Communications Director Peter Steele.

“I learned that government is very big and there is lots of work to do,” said Jacob Nass, 9, son of Senior Policy Advisor Jonathan Nass. “It was good to be with my Dad and see how he helps the Governor,” Jacob added.

“Today was an informative day. I think a quality needed when working in government is patience, especially when dealing with the media and answering all of their questions,” said Katelin Bennett, 14, daughter of Press Secretary Adrienne Bennett. “It was also fun seeing the different jobs that people have and learning about what they do on a daily basis.”

Governor Highlights Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day 

Program enables youth to see the work opportunities available to them as they consider their future

AUGUSTA – Thursday, April 24, is recognized nationally as Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. Governor Paul R. LePage is encouraging Mainers to actively participate in bringing children, between the ages of 9 and 15, into the workplace for all or part of the day. The Governor will deliver remarks at a special ceremony in the courtyard between the Cross Office Building and the State House Thursday at 11:30 a.m. to highlight the occasion.

For more than 20 years, individuals, families, organizations, and workplaces have joined in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day to broaden career opportunities of millions of girls and boys. Hundreds of youth are expected to accompany State of Maine employees who work within various State departments and agencies. Governor LePage is encouraging departments to support the initiative to make it a positive experience for everyone. Some tips for success:

• Create a welcome packet that introduces information about your department/agency
• Walk participants around the office and introduce them to staff
• Think about what you would like your child to see or do based on their personal interests

Office of the Governor staff and their children will begin the day with a meeting with Governor LePage, a State House tour, interviews with staff members, and during the afternoon will join First Lady Ann LePage for lunch at the Blaine House.

“As children begin to think about their future career paths, it’s important for parents, mentors and teachers to provide them ways to learn what they are most passionate about. One of the best gifts we can give our children is someone who can show them their potential and let them know that a job can turn into a career they love to do,” said Governor LePage.

Parents and mentors can learn more about Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day by visiting http://www.daughtersandsonstowork.org. If you are a Maine State employee and you are interested in bringing a family member to work Thursday, please contact: Karen Morgan at 624-7750 or Karen.B.Morgan@maine.gov.

CONNECT WITH GOVERNOR LEPAGE:

Hospital to Host Free Adult Aging Workshop

Takes place Saturday May 17

FARMINGTON, MAINE-

Franklin Memorial Hospital is hosting an adult aging workshop on Saturday, May 17 for community members. This free workshop will be held in Bass Room at Franklin Memorial Hospital from 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

 

This workshop will provide education and resources for aging adults and for caretakers of an aging adult. Topics covered will include Medicare counseling, elderly driving education, managing medications, legal services for the elderly, the community paramedicine project, Alzheimer’s education, and much more.

 

Informational handouts and professional contact resources will be provided to all attendees, along with a continental breakfast and coffee.

 

This workshop is made possible as part of the Neeley Foundation grant initiative at Franklin Memorial Hospital. For additional information or to register, please contact Jolene Libby at the Franklin Memorial Education Department at 779-2381 or email jlibby@fchn.org

Rejecting Common-sense Legislation Hurts Mainers

You’ve often heard me say that some liberal politicians would rather hurt Mainers than do what’s best for hard-working families and the taxpayers. A quick look at some of the bills they killed demonstrates what I mean.

Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.

Our administration submitted bills that would have attracted businesses to our state. These bills would have created good-paying jobs for Mainers, and they would have reformed welfare to make the system fair and efficient.

Liberal politicians rejected these bills. They chose to encourage waste and abuse in our welfare system. They chased job opportunities and careers from our state. They even prevented teenagers from getting jobs in movie theaters and bowling alleys.

We proposed Open for Business Zones that would have provided incentives to attract major employers and the high-paying careers they offer. Not only did liberals reject these zones, the Senate President said no jobs were better than non-union jobs.

This was just the latest attack by job-killing liberal politicians on our efforts to improve the state’s business climate and create careers for Mainers.

We have been making progress. Since we took office, more than 17,000 private-sector jobs have been created. The unemployment rate is the lowest since 2008. There are almost 8,000 jobs available on the Maine Job Bank.

But the liberals are determined to block our progress, even if it hurts Mainers. They have pursued their anti-business agenda with a vengeance this session. They tried to penalize call centers, which provide good-paying jobs to Mainers across the state. They blocked efforts to help Mainers lower their heating costs.

We just went through a bitter cold winter. Mainers need affordable heating options so they can stay warm in their homes. But liberals preferred to offer solar rebates to a few wealthy Mainers.

Our welfare system has major problems with waste, fraud and abuse. We proposed common-sense welfare reforms, but liberals fought to keep the status quo. Maine taxpayers work hard every day to provide welfare benefits. They expect accountability.

They don’t expect to see welfare recipients using their benefits to take trips to Florida or Las Vegas. They don’t expect to see EBT cash being used to buy alcohol, cigarettes and lottery tickets.

Wasting taxpayer money on welfare fraud and abuse takes money away from needy children, elderly and disabled Mainers and those who need a helping hand. It hurts the Mainers who truly need our help.

You might ask why liberals would want to hurt Mainers. The answer is simple: politics. They would rather defeat our proposals than do what is right for Mainers. It’s shameful.

But I don’t work for them. I ran for Governor because I want to help the people of Maine to prosper and succeed. So let the politicians play their games. I will focus on what’s really important – prosperous jobs, welfare reform and honesty to Maine people.

Thank you for listening.