Bill Meant To Aid Maine's Unpaid Federal Workers Clears Committee

AUGUSTA, Maine - A Maine legislative committee is recommending that the Legislature pass an emergency bill that would provide financial relief for federal workers in the state impacted by future government shutdowns. The proposed bill would guarantee Maine residents employed by the federal government access to up to $15,000 in interest-free local bank loans during shutdowns longer than two weeks. The Bangor Daily News reports the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee endorsed the bill on Tuesday.
 
The bill is sponsored by Democratic Senate President Troy Jackson, and needs two-thirds support from both chambers to take effect.
 
Floor votes could take place as early as Thursday. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills has endorsed the legislation.
 
If approved, the measure would apply to any partial or full shutdown through the end of 2019.