Restore Roe v. Wade's abortion rights nationwide in federal law
Protect abortion rights and access
Block or repeal abortion bans and restrictions
Protect abortion patients and providers from prosecution and harassment
Let public money and insurance pay for abortion
“We’re committed to making sure Maine people can make their own decisions about whether or not to start a family. This means not just protecting the right to abortion but taking steps to make sure that people can access it. It means doing everything we can to ensure that Mainers can access the birth control that works best for their bodies. It also means making sure more new mothers can access post-partum care and doing what we can to help Mainers who are struggling to become parents by improving access to fertility care.”
“I helped pass some of the strongest protections for abortion access in the country because I believe these decisions belong to women, their families, and their doctors — not politicians.”
“I’m running for Senate to restore and expand the federal right to abortion and make damn sure politicians never again get to take this freedom away from Mainers.”
“I’m running for Senate to keep radical anti-abortion extremists out of our courts and make damn sure politicians never again get to take this freedom away from Mainers.”
“Waiting periods and forced ultrasounds: Jackson opposed LD 1229, which would have imposed a 48-hour waiting period, and LD 1614, which would have required an ultrasound, biased counseling and a 48-hour waiting period.”
“Public and private insurance coverage: As Senate President, Jackson helped enact LD 820, requiring MaineCare and private insurance plans covering prenatal care to cover abortion services.”
“Abortion access after Dobbs: Jackson cosponsored LD 1619 after Roe was overturned. The law removed criminal penalties specific to abortion care and placed decisions about abortion later in pregnancy in the hands of women and licensed physicians applying the appropriate medical standard of care.”
“Protecting patients and providers: Jackson backed LD 227, Maine’s shield law protecting reproductive-health patients and providers from hostile actions initiated by other states.”
“People should have health care, prescription drug coverage, child care. I mean, in Maine, we’re really in trouble with nursing home elder care. We’ve lost about 40 percent of our nursing homes. Housing has become a major issue, and making sure that people have abortion access.”
Lower health care costs, including premiums and out-of-pocket costs
Restore and expand federal funding for Medicaid and health care
Pass Medicare for All
Lower prescription drug prices
Increase transparency in health care prices and costs
Curb consolidation and private equity ownership in health care
“Private equity companies have one goal – make their corporate shareholders even richer. So when they buy up rural hospitals, nursing homes and the primary medical care practice on Main Street, they aren’t focused on patient care, health outcomes or the community. They just want to make a whole bunch of money as quickly as possible. And it is patients and communities who pay the price. Maine patients are already struggling to access and afford the care they need and deserve. We cannot let what private equity firms are doing in other states, happen in Maine.”
“LD 120, “An Act To Lower Health Care Costs through the Establishment of the Office of Affordable Health Care” from President Jackson would rein in drug costs by identifying what’s driving sky-high prices. It also seeks to limit annual health care spending.”
“Governor Janet Mills, Senate President Troy Jackson, and Speaker of the House Sara Gideon today announced legislation to improve private health insurance for Maine people and small businesses. LD 2007, The Made for Maine Health Coverage Act, would make some of the most common medical visits free or less costly, simplify shopping for a plan, leverage federal funds to help make premiums more affordable for small businesses, and put Maine in the driver’s seat to ensure that all Maine people have clear choices for their coverage.”
“Whether it’s the criminally high costs of prescription drugs or crushing insurance premiums, Senate Democrats have been steadfast in their commitment to make health care accessible and affordable for all Maine people.”
“Legislative Democrats also also passed the Made for Maine Coverage Act – championed by Speaker Sara Gideon, D-Freeport, and Senate President Jackson, D-Allagash — which increases access to no-cost primary care visits, introduces standardized health plans so consumers can shop for the best price and coverage options and saves Mainers money by putting Maine in control of its health care marketplace rather than the federal government.”
“Throughout his time in the Legislature, President Jackson has emerged as a health care champion, sponsoring measures to lower the cost of prescription drugs, make health care more affordable, improve the quality of health insurance plans, attract and retain qualified health care professionals to Maine, and more. In addition, President Jackson spearheaded legislation establishing the Office of Affordable Health Care and the Prescription Drug Affordability Board.”
“LD 120, “An Act To Lower Health Care Costs through the Establishment of the Office of Affordable Health Care” from President Jackson would rein in costs by identifying what is driving sky-high prices. It also aims to limit increases in the amount we pay for health care annually.”
“The first bill from President Jackson – LD 120, “An Act To Lower Health Care Costs through the Establishment of the Office of Affordable Health Care” – would create an independent, nonpartisan Office of Affordable Health Care within the Maine Legislature.”
“Medicaid expansion is essential to keeping the doors on our rural hospitals open, providing individuals with the tools to combat addiction, and stabilizing health care costs for everyone. Not to mention, it will provide health care coverage to an estimated 70,000 Mainers.”
“The first bill – LR 2890, “An Act to Lower Health Care Costs” – from President Jackson will allow Maine to take control of growing health care costs in a complicated health care system by creating the Maine Commission on Affordable Health Care.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create a new independent, nonpartisan agency to rein in health care spending and improve access to quality care, became law without the governor’s signature on Thursday.”
“Troy believes health care is a right, not a privilege, and supports Medicare for All so every American can get the care they need without worrying about premiums, deductibles, or the fear of going bankrupt because they got sick.”
“I’ll be the first to admit that the Affordable Care Act has some flaws. But it’s been instrumental in expanding access to health care coverage for the previously uninsured and improving the overall quality of health insurance plans for everyone. If anything, we should be working to improve our health care system to lower the cost of prescription drugs and outrageous premiums.”
“The Maine Senate overwhelmingly approved the Making Health Care Work for Maine package put forth by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and the Maine Senate Democrats on Tuesday. The suite of health care and prescription drug reform bills target outrageous health care spending, unsupported and extreme prescription drug price increases, and drug price transparency.”
Lower insulin costs, such as with a $35 monthly cap
Bring cheaper generic drugs to market sooner
Stop drug companies' price gouging and excessive price hikes
Import cheaper prescription drugs from Canada
Require transparency in drug pricing
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that seeks to improve transparency in prescription drug coverage, was signed into law by Governor Janet T. Mills last week.”
“These rules mark the next step in implementing a new law from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would allow the wholesale importation of prescription drugs from Canada to Maine.”
“In the Maine Legislature, we haven’t been afraid to take on Big Pharma whether it’s passing a suite of prescription drug reform bills, creating an insulin safety net program or clamping down on abusive billing practices.”
“The first law effectively takes on “Big Pharma” by forcing brand-name drug producers to follow federal law. Brand-name manufacturers are supposed to provide samples of their drugs to generic producers, so that generic alternatives may be sold when the drug’s patent expires. This will increase the availability of generic prescription drugs, which are often cheaper than the brand-name versions.”
“President Jackson has filed two bills that would explore importing drugs from Canada, which are often cheaper than in the U.S. One bill would create a wholesale state importation program, while the second bill would create an individual importation program.”
“LD 1117, “An Act To Prevent Excessive Prices for Prescription Drugs” from President Jackson would protect Mainers from price gouging. It would prohibit the outrageous, headline-grabbing spikes in price for generic medication or off-patent drugs that have been on the market for years with no new developments.”
“In the Maine Senate, Jackson proved that he will fight for and deliver health care for Maine by taking on Big Pharma, strengthening rural health care, fighting for affordable insulin, and lowering prescription drug prices.”
“Fifth-generation logger, former Maine Senate President, and Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Troy Jackson hit the airwaves yesterday, joining local news stations across the state to discuss his plan to make life more affordable for working-class people by protecting Social Security, expanding access to health care,and lowering the cost of prescription drugs.”
“I’ve fought to lower prescription drug costs and feed kids at school. I’ll bring that same fight to Washington, lower people’s bills, and take on the corruption that shuts working people out.”
“Lower families’ costs: Pass Medicare for All, cut prescription drug prices, lower electricity bills, expand housing, and make child care more affordable.”
“LD 1117, “An Act To Prevent Excessive Prices for Prescription Drugs” from President Jackson would protect Mainers from price gouging. This bill focuses on the outrageous, headline-grabbing spikes on generic medication or off-patent drugs that have been on the market for years with no new developments.”
“President Jackson’s second bill in the Making Health Care Work for Maine package aims to protect Mainers from drug price gouging – the outrageous, overnight prescription drug price hikes that often grab headlines.”
“LD 1117, “An Act To Prevent Excessive Prices for Prescription Drugs” from President Jackson would prohibit excessive price increases for generic and off-patent prescription drugs sold in Maine.”
“The Maine Senate overwhelmingly approved the Making Health Care Work for Maine package put forth by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and the Maine Senate Democrats on Tuesday. The suite of health care and prescription drug reform bills target outrageous health care spending, unsupported and extreme prescription drug price increases, and drug price transparency.”
Lower Medicare premiums, copays and other out-of-pocket costs
“That's why I've been fighting back to protect Social Security and Medicare, and to cut taxes for working people, because you should keep more of what you earn.”
“I voted to increase the income tax pension deduction for retirees, and I fought to expand access to Medicare Savings Programs, which can help eligible Mainers with premiums and other out-of-pocket costs.”
“While Troy believes in Medicare for All, he believes that it would be a challenge for Maine to implement on its own. That’s why he supports the pursuit of a public option.”
“The two leaders shared their plans to work together to pass Medicare for All, put a check on Trump’s dangerous and illegal policies, and put working people first.”
“Lower families’ costs: Pass Medicare for All, cut prescription drug prices, lower electricity bills, expand housing, and make child care more affordable.”
“That’s why I proudly support Medicare for All, lowering drug costs, and taking on Big Pharma when I get to the U.S. Senate so that Mainers aren’t avoiding the doctor or rationing life-saving medication due to costs.”
“Troy believes health care is a right, not a privilege, and supports Medicare for All so every American can get the care they need without worrying about premiums, deductibles, or the fear of going bankrupt because they got sick.”
“In the Senate, he would support and cosponsor the Medicare for All Act, take on Big Pharma and the insurance companies, and save working people money.”
“Mainers aren’t asking for too much when it comes to health care. They shouldn’t be forced into bankruptcy by the cost of their prescriptions, and they shouldn’t have to travel two hours both ways to see a doctor”
“In Augusta, Troy has emerged as a health care champion, spearheading legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs, increase access to care and fund rural hospitals.”
“Fifth-generation logger, former Maine Senate President, and Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Troy Jackson hit the airwaves yesterday, joining local news stations across the state to discuss his plan to make life more affordable for working-class people by protecting Social Security, expanding access to health care,and lowering the cost of prescription drugs.”
“Whether it’s the criminally high costs of prescription drugs or crushing insurance premiums, Senate Democrats have been steadfast in their commitment to make health care accessible and affordable for all Maine people.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create a new independent, nonpartisan agency to rein in health care spending and improve access to quality care, became law without the governor’s signature on Thursday.”
“It also builds on their work last year to enact the peoples’ will and expand Medicaid, which has enabled more than 57,000 Maine people to access life-saving health care.”
“Medicaid expansion is essential to keeping the doors on our rural hospitals open, providing individuals with the tools to combat addiction, and stabilizing health care costs for everyone. Not to mention, it will provide health care coverage to an estimated 70,000 Mainers.”
Protect, strengthen and expand the Affordable Care Act
Protect coverage for people with pre-existing conditions
“This new legislative action by Governor Mills, Senate President Troy Jackson, and House Speaker Sara Gideon comes after the three teamed up last year to spearhead into law LD 1, which codified into State law critical Affordable Care Act protections in the state’s regulated markets, such as guaranteed coverage for pre-existing conditions, a ban on lifetime and annual caps on coverage and allowing young adults up to age 26 to remain on their parents’ insurance, as well as coverage for essential health services such as ambulance services, prescription drugs, and pediatric care.”
“Last week, I filed legislation to make sure Maine law covers patient protections included in the ACA. If the ACA goes away, Mainers can rest assured that the patient protections will remain. This means no insurance company can discriminate against Mainers with preexisting conditions. This means essential health benefits, such as ambulance services, prescription drugs and pediatric care, will still be covered. This means young adults can remain on their parents’ health insurance plans until age 26.”
Make long-term and elder care affordable and available
Help older and disabled people get care at home and in their communities
Support family members who care for aging or disabled relatives
Raise care workers' pay and grow the care workforce
Fund nursing homes and keep rural care facilities open
“Respecting the generations that have come before us is just what we do in Aroostook County, and that means making sure that folks can get the level of care and support they need as they age while also remaining close to home and their loved ones.”
“This past legislative session, President Jackson successfully led the charge to prevent the Maine Veterans’ Homes in Caribou and Machias from closing, while championing investments in nursing homes, residential care facilities and other long-term care providers.”
“At the same time, he voted to boost in-home and community support services for older Mainers in need of daily assistance and supported funding for Meals on Wheels.”
“In 2021, President Jackson focused his efforts on addressing long-term care workforce issues, property tax relief and the high cost of prescription medication.”
“Today, Maine Senate Democrats voted in favor of a historic investment in Maine businesses and working families who experienced profound hardship and extraordinary tragedy throughout this pandemic. It will lift up the farmers and fishermen who have suffered greatly after the demand for local foods disappeared overnight when restaurants had to close their dining rooms, while also boosting small businesses all across the state. It will help Maine seniors and individuals with disabilities afford to stay in their homes while supporting family caregivers and working to build a robust direct care workforce. And, it will make long-overdue investments in our career technical education and workforce training programs, while also working to close gaps in our health care workforce and system”
“In 2020, President Jackson successfully passed legislation to provide additional funding to Maine’s long-term care facilities, including Maine Veterans’ Homes.”
Require health plans to cover essential care and pre-existing conditions
Restrict short-term, limited-coverage health plans
Simplify health insurance and cut its paperwork and overhead
“Legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to limit short-term “junk insurance” plans received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee on Thursday.”
“Health insurance companies shouldn’t be able to trick Mainers into purchasing these cheap, faulty plans. They shouldn’t be able to sell Mainers a bill of goods only to pull the rug out from underneath them in a health crisis”
“Governor Janet Mills, Senate President Troy Jackson, and Speaker of the House Sara Gideon today announced legislation to improve private health insurance for Maine people and small businesses. LD 2007, The Made for Maine Health Coverage Act, would make some of the most common medical visits free or less costly, simplify shopping for a plan, leverage federal funds to help make premiums more affordable for small businesses, and put Maine in the driver’s seat to ensure that all Maine people have clear choices for their coverage.”
“This new legislative action by Governor Mills, Senate President Troy Jackson, and House Speaker Sara Gideon comes after the three teamed up last year to spearhead into law LD 1, which codified into State law critical Affordable Care Act protections in the state’s regulated markets, such as guaranteed coverage for pre-existing conditions, a ban on lifetime and annual caps on coverage and allowing young adults up to age 26 to remain on their parents’ insurance, as well as coverage for essential health services such as ambulance services, prescription drugs, and pediatric care.”
“On Monday, Governor-elect Janet Mills, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and House Speaker Sara Gideon, D-Freeport announced the first bill of the 129th Legislature: LD 1, “An Act to Protect Health Care Coverage for Maine families.” The bill, introduced by President Jackson, seeks to require insurance companies to include basic patient protections in health care plans offered in Maine.”
“Legislative Democrats also also passed the Made for Maine Coverage Act – championed by Speaker Sara Gideon, D-Freeport, and Senate President Jackson, D-Allagash — which increases access to no-cost primary care visits, introduces standardized health plans so consumers can shop for the best price and coverage options and saves Mainers money by putting Maine in control of its health care marketplace rather than the federal government.”
“He also voted against a measure that would have allowed “junk insurance” plans to be sold in the state, efforts to undermine access to reproductive health care and a proposal considered by health care professionals to be medically dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening.”
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and members of the Senate Democratic Caucus soundly rejected legislation to bring back junk insurance health plans in a vote of 22-13 on Thursday.”
“Mainers expect their health insurance plans to cover their basic needs and be there when they are sick or injured. It’s why my colleagues and I championed legislation to put strict limits on short-term health insurance plans, otherwise known as junk insurance plans, last session”
“In the Senate, he would support and cosponsor the Medicare for All Act, take on Big Pharma and the insurance companies, and save working people money.”
“Last week, I filed legislation to make sure Maine law covers patient protections included in the ACA. If the ACA goes away, Mainers can rest assured that the patient protections will remain. This means no insurance company can discriminate against Mainers with preexisting conditions. This means essential health benefits, such as ambulance services, prescription drugs and pediatric care, will still be covered. This means young adults can remain on their parents’ health insurance plans until age 26.”
Require insurers and public programs to cover contraception
“We’re committed to making sure Maine people can make their own decisions about whether or not to start a family. This means not just protecting the right to abortion but taking steps to make sure that people can access it. It means doing everything we can to ensure that Mainers can access the birth control that works best for their bodies. It also means making sure more new mothers can access post-partum care and doing what we can to help Mainers who are struggling to become parents by improving access to fertility care.”
“Contraception and emergency contraception: Jackson sponsored LD 1954, requiring state-regulated insurance plans to cover FDA-approved prescription contraceptives without out-of-pocket costs.”
Protect and expand access to prenatal and postpartum care
Expand access to midwives and doulas
End maternity care deserts and keep maternity wards open
“We’re committed to making sure Maine people can make their own decisions about whether or not to start a family. This means not just protecting the right to abortion but taking steps to make sure that people can access it. It means doing everything we can to ensure that Mainers can access the birth control that works best for their bodies. It also means making sure more new mothers can access post-partum care and doing what we can to help Mainers who are struggling to become parents by improving access to fertility care.”
“This year, President Jackson supported efforts to lower prescription drug costs, improve access to prenatal health care for expectant mothers and children, and require health insurance plans to cover midwife services.”
Protect and strengthen rural hospitals so they stay open
Increase and protect funding for rural hospitals
Raise Medicare, Medicaid and other payments to rural hospitals
Keep rural maternity wards open
Expand Medicaid to help keep rural hospitals open
Recruit and keep doctors, nurses and EMTs at rural hospitals
“The Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals by facilitating the hiring of emergency medical technicians on Tuesday.”
“The Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee endorsed a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals on Friday.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee on Friday. LD 1350, “An Act To Improve Rural Health Care,” would increase the reimbursement rate for rural hospitals and health clinics.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously enacted legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals by facilitating the hiring of emergency technicians on Tuesday.”
“In Augusta, Troy has emerged as a health care champion, spearheading legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs, increase access to care and fund rural hospitals.”
“Medicaid expansion is essential to keeping the doors on our rural hospitals open, providing individuals with the tools to combat addiction, and stabilizing health care costs for everyone. Not to mention, it will provide health care coverage to an estimated 70,000 Mainers.”
“A proposal from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to fund rural hospitals and ambulance services was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills on Tuesday.”
Keep people from going into debt or bankrupt over medical bills
Curb predatory collection, interest and lending on medical debt
Prevent medical debt by guaranteeing health coverage
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to better protect patients from predatory medical credit card practices cleared the Maine Senate with bipartisan support this morning.”
“Troy believes health care is a right, not a privilege, and supports Medicare for All so every American can get the care they need without worrying about premiums, deductibles, or the fear of going bankrupt because they got sick.”
Bring more health workers to rural and underserved areas
Train more doctors, nurses and health workers
“The Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals by facilitating the hiring of emergency medical technicians on Tuesday.”
“The second law expands an existing tax credit program designed to bring more health care professionals into rural and medically underserved parts of the state, including Aroostook County.”
“In 2021, President Jackson focused his efforts on addressing long-term care workforce issues, property tax relief and the high cost of prescription medication.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously enacted legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural hospitals by facilitating the hiring of emergency technicians on Tuesday.”
“Today, Maine Senate Democrats voted in favor of a historic investment in Maine businesses and working families who experienced profound hardship and extraordinary tragedy throughout this pandemic. It will lift up the farmers and fishermen who have suffered greatly after the demand for local foods disappeared overnight when restaurants had to close their dining rooms, while also boosting small businesses all across the state. It will help Maine seniors and individuals with disabilities afford to stay in their homes while supporting family caregivers and working to build a robust direct care workforce. And, it will make long-overdue investments in our career technical education and workforce training programs, while also working to close gaps in our health care workforce and system”
“Throughout his time in the Legislature, President Jackson has emerged as a health care champion, sponsoring measures to lower the cost of prescription drugs, make health care more affordable, improve the quality of health insurance plans, attract and retain qualified health care professionals to Maine, and more. In addition, President Jackson spearheaded legislation establishing the Office of Affordable Health Care and the Prescription Drug Affordability Board.”
“On Tuesday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to address the growing shortage of health care professionals in Maine. LD 1797, “An Act to Expand Maine’s Health Care Workforce by Expanding Educational Opportunities and Providing Tax Credits,” was the subject of a public hearing before the Legislature’s Innovation, Development and Economic Advancement and Business Committee.”
“To ensure that Maine people can continue to get the care they deserve, we must take bold action to support health care workers already providing critical care and do more to attract and retain individuals to work in this field in Maine”
Expand access to addiction treatment and recovery services
Expand access to non-opioid pain treatments
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that seeks to improve patient access to new non-opioid pain relievers, was signed into law by Governor Janet T. Mills on Monday.”
“On Thursday, Feb. 28, the Maine Senate sent an amended proposal from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would improve access to treatment and recovery programs available through the courts, to the Governor’s desk.”
“Medicaid expansion is essential to keeping the doors on our rural hospitals open, providing individuals with the tools to combat addiction, and stabilizing health care costs for everyone. Not to mention, it will provide health care coverage to an estimated 70,000 Mainers.”
“On Tuesday, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to improve transparency on the use of facility fees in health care and better understand the impact of these fees on Maine patients.”
“The increased use of so-called ‘facility fees’ has only made it more difficult for patients to know how much they will owe when they leave the lab or doctor’s office. What’s worse is that these fees are often avoidable but patients don’t know they exist until it is too late”
“For too long, funding for family planning services has remained stagnant. With widespread attacks on reproductive freedom, access to quality, affordable reproductive care across Maine is more important than ever.”
“In 1995, our state had 132 nursing homes. Now, that number is closer to 80, with no nursing homes in the entirety of Hancock County. This shows what a systemic problem we have on our hands.”
“It’s high time we took action to lower the cost of prescription drugs in this country. And I don’t mean making minor progress around the margins. We need to tackle the prescription drug crisis head-on.”
“I find myself struggling to find the right words in response to the leaked draft of the Supreme Court opinion that intends to overturn the landmark abortion rights case. It’s a document that does not reflect the values, experiences, or needs of an overwhelming majority of Americans, let alone respect legal precedent. Instead, it’s a grossly out-of-touch document that reflects fringe beliefs and paints a disturbing picture of what is to come.”
“Requiring individuals to wear face masks and follow basic health and safety measures to conduct legislative duties amid a pandemic is a simple, easy and effective way to do right by our colleagues and legislative staff to prevent the spread of this virus.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash and House Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford presented LD 1, “An Act to Establish the COVID-19 Patient Bill of Rights” at a public hearing before the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.”
“Two years ago, my colleagues and I took on ‘Big Pharma’ and passed a comprehensive prescription drug reform package to lower prices for Maine people.”
“We know that pharmaceutical companies will do everything they can to protect their outrageous profits and that it’s going to take more than one set of laws to reform an out-of-control industry.”
“Access to health care is about freedom. It’s something I’ve said over and over again because it’s true, and I know what that means for working people. It means the difference between going to the doctor when you’re sick and putting your health – potentially your life – at risk”
“Following the fall of Roe v. Wade, while Troy was instrumental in passing the nation’s strongest protections and expansion of reproductive rights in Maine, Susan Collins said she didn’t regret her vote to confirm Brett Kavanaugh.”
“With control of the U.S. Senate — and the future of reproductive freedom — on the line, Maine voters will have a clear choice this November: Susan Collins helped put the votes on the Supreme Court that overturned Roe. Troy Jackson will fight to restore the rights they took away.”
“We have money for wars, forever wars. We have money for tax cuts for wealthy people. We have money to sink into ICE for Donald Trump's narcissism. But anytime you want to talk about health care, well, it's too damn expensive. It isn't. It's just that wealthy people, some wealthy people in this country, do not want to see this happen.”
“I think this is about prioritizing where we spend our money. The federal government has all kinds of money to do whatever it wants, like I said with forever wars or tax cuts for wealthy people, but as soon as you start talking about healthcare for people, they act like it's impossible to do. It's not impossible to do, it's impossible to get filthy rich off the system in a health care for all system.”
“All these people that are elected are making decisions about other people's healthcare while they're on government-sponsored healthcare, deciding who else is worthy. Well, I think everybody's worthy, and I actually think it would be so much better for our country and, like you said, for small business owners to not have to worry about trying to supply that to their workers.”
“This is a commonsense policy that reflects what Dr. Fauci, Dr. Shah, and other public health experts have reported – wearing a mask helps prevent the spread of this virus and is essential to reopening the economy.”
“‘Big Pharma’ doesn’t need a reason to jack up prescription drug prices. They do it because they can. That’s why in the Maine Legislature, we are taking things into our own hands”
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, nominated Christy Daggett of Presque Isle to the newly created Advisory Council on Affordable Healthcare before the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee on Tuesday.”
“Bringing reform to an out-of-control industry fueled by pharmaceutical companies and insurance giants won’t be easy, but I know that Christy and the newly confirmed members of the Advisory Council for Affordable Health Care are up to the task.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to support the continued operations of Maine’s free, confidential health care consumer assistance program at a public hearing before the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.”
“Health care coverage is critical to the health of Maine people. It allows folks to seek the preventive care they need as opposed to forgoing care and putting their health at risk due to cost.”
“The consumer assistance program ensures that Mainers have someone in their corner helping them get the coverage and care they deserve, and receive the benefits they are owed. It’s vital that this program continues.”
“The right to decide if and when to start a family is fundamental to who we are as Americans and our freedom. It’s a deeply personal decision — one that should not be made by politicians or justices with political agendas.”
“Senate President Troy Jackon, D-Allagash, presented his nominations to the newly created Advisory Council on Affordable Healthcare before the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee on Tuesday.”
“Tonight’s ruling marks another devastating blow to Americans’ reproductive freedom. Elected officials and politically motivated judges have absolutely no business making decisions that should be left up to the American people and their trusted health care professionals.”
“Mifepristone is a drug that has been on the market for more than two decades. It has met rigorous health and safety standards to earn approval from the FDA, and it has proven to be safe and effective. This is nothing more than a callous attack on medication abortion.”
“As the cost of health care continues to spiral out-of-control, Maine families are left with an impossible situation, trying to figure out how they can afford to take their kids to the doctor and get the care they need for themselves.”
“After Collins helped confirm the judges who overturned Roe v. Wade, Troy co-sponsored and helped pass LD 1619, one of the strongest abortion protections in the country.”
“The Maine Senate approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support rural ambulance and neonatal services, in an initial vote on Thursday.”
“There is no way around it – access to ambulance services saves lives. Too many communities are on the brink of losing yet another critical health service”
“The Office of Affordable Health Care is an independent agency established by the Legislature through legislation sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash.”
Give tax incentives to employers that create or keep jobs
Require companies and public projects to hire local workers
“If there is work that needs to be done in this state and in this country, and taxpayers are footing the bill, then the people living, working and paying taxes in this state and country should have the opportunity to do the job. And if there are materials or parts needed to do the job, those materials should be American-made whenever possible.”
“President Jackson introduced three of the scored measures all of which earned strong support in the Maine Legislature but ultimately did not become law. The proposals include a bill to prioritize the hiring of Maine workers and businesses for state contracts, a bill to protect Maine workers and ensure access to legal counsel in the face of workplace violations and a bill to promote good-faith negotiations in public sector-employment contracts.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced Buy American, Build Maine legislation alongside Maine-based businesses at a public hearing before the Legislature’s State and Local Government Committee. LD 1411, “An Act To Establish the Maine Buy American and Build Maine Act” would give preference to Maine-based businesses, workers and American manufacturing when the state awards procurement contracts.”
“On Tuesday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to increase and extend a tax break for the Loring Development Authority to protect jobs at the former air force base, attract new economic opportunities and alleviate pressure on the residents of Limestone. The proposal – LD 1981, “An Act to Extend and Expand the Loring Job Increment Financing Fund” – was the subject of a public hearing before the Legislature’s Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business Committee.”
“Increasing and extending the Loring Job Increment Financing Fund is essential to supporting both new and existing jobs and encouraging more companies to invest in the former air force base. LD 1981 is about not giving up on Limestone and Aroostook County.”
“Despite initial strong bipartisan support, Senate Republicans flipped their vote to reject “Hire Maine” legislation and sustain the governor’s veto. The bill – LD 268, “An Act To Create a Credit under the Commercial Forestry Excise Tax for Landowners Using Businesses Based in the United States,” – from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, sought to incentivize the hiring of Maine workers over cheaper Canadian labor in the Maine woods.”
Invest in community colleges, trade schools and vocational education
“Today, Maine Senate Democrats voted in favor of a historic investment in Maine businesses and working families who experienced profound hardship and extraordinary tragedy throughout this pandemic. It will lift up the farmers and fishermen who have suffered greatly after the demand for local foods disappeared overnight when restaurants had to close their dining rooms, while also boosting small businesses all across the state. It will help Maine seniors and individuals with disabilities afford to stay in their homes while supporting family caregivers and working to build a robust direct care workforce. And, it will make long-overdue investments in our career technical education and workforce training programs, while also working to close gaps in our health care workforce and system”
“As Senate President, he fought to lower prescription drug costs, pass universal school meals, deliver property tax relief, protect rural health care, defend our environment, and make sure Maine workers get fair wages, decent benefits, and a voice on the job.”
“In the Senate, I’ll stand with working people fighting for better wages, safer workplaces, the right to organize, and a government that works for them instead of the wealthy and well-connected.”
“These are the drivers, operators, mechanics, and maintenance workers who keep our communities moving every single day. They deserve good wages, safe working conditions, and a government that has their backs.”
“Former President Barack Obama endorsed Troy Jackson for U.S. Senate yesterday, highlighting the fifth-generation logger’s working-class roots and record of lowering prescription drug costs, raising wages, delivering free school meals, and protecting abortion rights.”
Protect workers' right to organize and bargain collectively
Make it easier for workers to unionize and bargain
Protect and strengthen labor unions
Strengthen enforcement of labor law
Have employers stay neutral when workers try to unionize
“A fifth-generation logger, union member, and former Maine Senate President, Jackson has delivered lower prescription drug costs, universal school meals, paid family and medical leave, and collective bargaining rights for loggers.”
“Let me be clear – the workers at Bates College deserve the opportunity to decide for themselves whether or not the Bates Educators and Staff Organization will help them achieve these goals in an environment free of fear and intimidation.”
“I remain hopeful that the leadership at Bates College will show their gratitude for their employees who have been instrumental to the institution’s legacy and success by respecting their right to organize and remaining neutral throughout the organizing drive and refraining from the type of anti-union activity we’ve seen elsewhere.”
“Troy believes democracy depends on Americans being able to exercise both their right to vote and their right to organize at work without intimidation or retaliation.”
“As Maine Senate President, Troy passed a law giving our state’s loggers and haulers the same right to bargain collectively as potato farmers and lobstermen.”
“He would support the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to strengthen federal voting-rights protections and the PRO Act to make it easier for workers to form unions, collectively bargain, and hold employers accountable for violating organizing rights.”
“All Democratic members of the Maine Senate voted against legislation from Rep. Larry Lockman, R-Bradley, that would undercut the ability of unions and professional organization to organize, collectively bargain and advocate for better working conditions.”
“As lawmakers, we must reject measures that undermine the ability of unions or organizations to advocate for fair wages, safe work environments and better working conditions.”
“The new coalition, Families for Troy, highlights support from educators and families who praise Jackson’s efforts in the Maine legislature fighting for issues affecting the next generation of Mainers, like universal school meals, lowering child care costs, and securing paid family leave.”
“A fifth-generation logger, union member, and former Maine Senate President, Jackson has delivered lower prescription drug costs, universal school meals, paid family and medical leave, and collective bargaining rights for loggers.”
“While more capable machines hold real promise in improving our lives, unregulated, they also threaten to steal our jobs, hijack our minds, worsen our isolation, and harm our children.”
Reward companies that keep or create jobs in the US
“Despite initial strong bipartisan support, Senate Republicans flipped their vote to reject “Hire Maine” legislation and sustain the governor’s veto. The bill – LD 268, “An Act To Create a Credit under the Commercial Forestry Excise Tax for Landowners Using Businesses Based in the United States,” – from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, sought to incentivize the hiring of Maine workers over cheaper Canadian labor in the Maine woods.”
Keep immigration from undercutting American workers' wages and jobs
“When corporations started replacing Maine loggers with cheap foreign labor, Troy did not just complain about it. Troy helped lead the 1998 logging blockade at the Canadian border that forced the state to pay attention.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to protect Maine trucking jobs became law without the governor’s signature Friday, June 18. LD 188, “An Act Regarding the Transportation of Products in the Forest Products Industry” would fine large landowners and the offending motor carrier for failing to follow federal cabotage.”
“President Jackson has repeatedly sought action on both the state and federal level to end this unlawful practice and hold violators accountable. He even brought Gov. Paul LePage up to Fort Kent to hear directly from the affected truckers in 2017. In the Maine Legislature, President Jackson has introduced several pieces of legislation to protect Maine trucking jobs and penalize offending companies for breaking the law, including a new state law that takes effect October 18. In addition, he has written to the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Homeland Security, the Secretary of State and the Department of Labor. Last summer, he filed a complaint against the Department of Labor for failing to enforce federal cabotage laws.”
“On Monday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) for repeatedly failing to enforce H2A immigration law with regard to the practice of cabotage by Canadian H2A workers in Maine’s logging and trucking industry.”
“This isn’t about the Canadians; it’s about the U.S. allowing companies to violate the law and leaving American workers to pay the price. I am asking the department something very simple: enforce the law and protect logging and trucking jobs for hard-working people in our state.”
“All this bill does is ask large landowners to do the bare minimum: follow federal cabotage law, recognize the abuse of the H-2A visa program and give Maine workers the fair shot they deserve.”
“Despite initial strong bipartisan support, Senate Republicans flipped their vote to reject “Hire Maine” legislation and sustain the governor’s veto. The bill – LD 268, “An Act To Create a Credit under the Commercial Forestry Excise Tax for Landowners Using Businesses Based in the United States,” – from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, sought to incentivize the hiring of Maine workers over cheaper Canadian labor in the Maine woods.”
“All Mainers deserve to work in a safe environment that honors the dignity and rights of workers. Yet, too many Maine workers experience workplace violations, whether it’s wage theft, harassment or safety violations, only to find out that they’ve signed away their right to speak out or take action in the face of injustice”
“All Maine workers are asking for is a level-playing field to compete in our economy and provide for their families whether they are hauling loads in the northern Maine woods or fishing along the coast. However, the failure to enforce federal cabotage laws has put the livelihoods of Maine loggers and wood-haulers in jeopardy”
“The Maine Legislature approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to protect the rights of Maine workers to speak out and take action against workplace violations on Friday.”
“This year, he introduced legislation to promote good-faith negotiations in public sector employee contracts. The bill would have made the arbitration process binding. Despite passing both the Senate and House, the measure was vetoed by the governor.”
“For years, Maine loggers and wood-haulers have raised the alarm about the misuse of foreign labor by large landowners and trucking companies. It seems clear that this practice violates federal law by adversely affecting the wages, working conditions and job opportunities for folks trying to make a decent living in the Maine woods”
“A bill sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, authorizing the use of project labor agreements in public works projects was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills on Thursday. The new law – LD 1564, “An Act To Authorize Project Labor Agreements for Public Works Projects” – gives public authorities complete discretion to determine when to enter a Project Labor Agreement on a project-by-project basis.”
“The use of project labor agreements in public works projects benefit the state, taxpayers and workers. It ensures tax dollars are spent wisely, ensures projects are completed on time and under budget, and ensures that workers are paid fair wages and treated appropriately on the job”
“Let me be clear: I will always have the back of working people whether it’s on the picket line, at the bargaining table, or in the U.S. Senate, because when workers stand together, we can’t – and won’t – be stopped.”
“Working people are not powerless, We are made to feel like we're powerless, but when we stand alone, and that's the way they want us, to be separated, divided, so that we're never are able to pick our heads up, we're never able to do anything to, you know, capture that power, and build the life that we want, and that to me is what unions, that's what the MEA has always been about.”
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, working Mainers stepped up and continued to serve our communities, often in the toughest of circumstances. It only seemed right to do something to show our gratitude and appreciation by providing some modest relief as we head into the holiday season”
“Whether it’s a violation of employment law or human rights law, Maine workers should be able to speak out and demand justice. Unfortunately, the current law is failing them.”
“Quality, good-paying jobs can have a ripple effect across entire communities. Fair wages support Maine families, strengthen small businesses and local economies, and help attract young people to stay and build a life in our rural communities”
“The Maine Senate approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to promote good-faith negotiations in public sector employee contracts in a party-line vote of 19-13 on Wednesday. LD 677, “An Act To Improve Public Sector Labor Relations by Amending the Laws Governing Arbitration Under Certain Public Employees Labor Relations Laws” would make the arbitration process binding for public sector employers and employees on key issues.”
“However, right now agreements reached through the arbitration process are meaningless for employees and employers because they simply aren’t binding.”
“The first bill from President Jackson – LD 1524, “An Act To Prevent Wage Theft and Promote Employer Accountability” – aims to protect Maine workers from wage thefts by allowing for injunctive relief and cease operations orders.”
“President Jackson’s bill – LD 1658, “An Act To Clarify Prevailing Wage Rates on State Projects Using Federal Funds” – would ensure that the state pays fair wages when spending taxpayer money on public projects.”
“President Jackson’s bill – LD 1620, “An Act To Exclude Collectively Bargained Salary and Job Promotion Increases from the Earnable Compensation Limitation for Retirement Purposes” – ensures public workers don’t get shortchanged for their promotion upon retirement.”
Protect farmland and fishing grounds from wind and solar projects
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to pave the way for good-paying renewable energy jobs in northern Maine was signed into law by Governor Janet Mills on Tuesday.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously enacted a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to lower energy costs by embracing Maine’s wood energy industry on Wednesday.”
“The first bill – LD 912, “An Act To Establish the Wood Energy Investment Program” – would create a new Wood Energy Investment Program would provide incentives and low- or no-interest loans to businesses that produce energy using biomass. It would strengthen the forest products industry, lower energy costs, and increase the use of Maine wood products to generate energy.”
“On Monday, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) took the first step toward implementing a new law from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create good-paying renewable energy jobs, lower energy costs and boost economic development in Aroostook County.”
“By connecting Aroostook County to the New England power grid, we can attract renewable energy companies to Maine, create good-paying jobs and jump-start economic development in the County, and help the state meet its renewable energy goals”
“Today, the Maine Public Utilities Commission selected the winning transmission and distribution bids for the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program, a program established by legislation put forward by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash.”
“It’s time to unleash the power of home-grown energy in Aroostook County, from biomass to other renewable energy projects, and all the good-paying jobs that come with it.”
“The offshore wind energy project will not only create quality, good-paying jobs but play a critical role in Maine’s path towards energy independence. But as I’ve said from the beginning, this cannot and should not come at the expense of Maine’s lobster industry.”
“On Wednesday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, urged the Maine Public Utilities Committee to give final approval to the winning transmission and distribution bids for the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program.”
“Maine is in the midst of an energy crisis and the key to meaningful energy relief is in our own backyard. By unlocking the affordable, homegrown renewable energy just waiting to be generated in Aroostook County, we can lower energy costs for working families, strengthen our energy independence and create good-paying jobs in rural Maine”
“President Jackson worked with partners in Massachusetts – Senate President Karen Spilka, Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano and the Chairs of the Massachusetts Legislatures’ Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy – to include language in a new Massachusetts law that would allow the Commonwealth to purchase power through the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to pave the way for good-paying renewable energy jobs in northern Maine, earned unanimous approval in the Maine Senate on Tuesday.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to lower energy costs by embracing Maine’s wood energy industry on Monday. LD 597, “An Act To Establish the Wood Energy Investment Program” would provide incentives and low- or no-interest loans to businesses that produce energy using biomass.”
“There is nothing inherently wrong with data centers. There is everything wrong with a “damn the community” approach to building them that neither protects nor benefits everyday Mainers.”
“Mainers deserve electricity that’s reliable, affordable, and clean. But in recent years our utilities have moved far more money to Wall Street investors than they have into regular upkeep of our grid and the workers who maintain it – all while raising costs for ratepayers.”
“Legislation from President Jackson – LD 2010, “An Act to Help Maine Residents with High Electricity Costs” focuses on more immediate relief by establishing a tax rebate program for certain electricity ratepayers. The current proposal would provide a $1,000 tax rebate for residential ratepayers and $2,500 tax rebate for businesses with high energy usage.”
“Lower families’ costs: Pass Medicare for All, cut prescription drug prices, lower electricity bills, expand housing, and make child care more affordable.”
“So when confronted by rising energy costs and inflation, lawmakers worked with the governor to put forward the Winter Emergency Energy Relief Plan to help folks get by in the heart of winter while we worked on long-term solutions.”
“On Wednesday, the Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would deliver rate relief to more than 60 eligible businesses that did not receive the energy credit authorized by the Legislature last year.”
“In 2022, President Jackson introduced legislation — LD 2010, An Act to Help Maine Residents with High Electricity Costs — creating a tiered credit for eligible small businesses and organizations that were impacted by increases in electricity costs caused by the spike in the price of natural gas and its effect on the standard offer. The program successfully delivered energy relief to just under 3,000 businesses that are considered “medium-general service” under the standard offer.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously enacted a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to lower energy costs by embracing Maine’s wood energy industry on Wednesday.”
“The first bill – LD 912, “An Act To Establish the Wood Energy Investment Program” – would create a new Wood Energy Investment Program would provide incentives and low- or no-interest loans to businesses that produce energy using biomass. It would strengthen the forest products industry, lower energy costs, and increase the use of Maine wood products to generate energy.”
“On Monday, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) took the first step toward implementing a new law from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create good-paying renewable energy jobs, lower energy costs and boost economic development in Aroostook County.”
“Mainers are counting on lawmakers to do everything we can to lower energy costs and stabilize the market for the future. The Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program can play a key role in delivering significant relief.”
“Maine is in the midst of an energy crisis and the key to meaningful energy relief is in our own backyard. By unlocking the affordable, homegrown renewable energy just waiting to be generated in Aroostook County, we can lower energy costs for working families, strengthen our energy independence and create good-paying jobs in rural Maine”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to lower energy costs by embracing Maine’s wood energy industry on Monday. LD 597, “An Act To Establish the Wood Energy Investment Program” would provide incentives and low- or no-interest loans to businesses that produce energy using biomass.”
Make the U.S. energy independent by producing more at home
Expand clean and renewable energy production at home
“The offshore wind energy project will not only create quality, good-paying jobs but play a critical role in Maine’s path towards energy independence. But as I’ve said from the beginning, this cannot and should not come at the expense of Maine’s lobster industry.”
“Maine is in the midst of an energy crisis and the key to meaningful energy relief is in our own backyard. By unlocking the affordable, homegrown renewable energy just waiting to be generated in Aroostook County, we can lower energy costs for working families, strengthen our energy independence and create good-paying jobs in rural Maine”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to pave the way for good-paying renewable energy jobs in northern Maine was signed into law by Governor Janet Mills on Tuesday.”
“On Monday, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) took the first step toward implementing a new law from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create good-paying renewable energy jobs, lower energy costs and boost economic development in Aroostook County.”
“By connecting Aroostook County to the New England power grid, we can attract renewable energy companies to Maine, create good-paying jobs and jump-start economic development in the County, and help the state meet its renewable energy goals”
“It’s time to unleash the power of home-grown energy in Aroostook County, from biomass to other renewable energy projects, and all the good-paying jobs that come with it.”
“Maine is in the midst of an energy crisis and the key to meaningful energy relief is in our own backyard. By unlocking the affordable, homegrown renewable energy just waiting to be generated in Aroostook County, we can lower energy costs for working families, strengthen our energy independence and create good-paying jobs in rural Maine”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to pave the way for good-paying renewable energy jobs in northern Maine, earned unanimous approval in the Maine Senate on Tuesday.”
Make the grid reliable and resilient against storms and outages
Expand transmission and get new power lines built faster
Lower the cost of transmission
“Mainers deserve electricity that’s reliable, affordable, and clean. But in recent years our utilities have moved far more money to Wall Street investors than they have into regular upkeep of our grid and the workers who maintain it – all while raising costs for ratepayers.”
“By connecting Aroostook County to the New England power grid, we can attract renewable energy companies to Maine, create good-paying jobs and jump-start economic development in the County, and help the state meet its renewable energy goals”
“Today, the Maine Public Utilities Commission selected the winning transmission and distribution bids for the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program, a program established by legislation put forward by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash.”
“On Wednesday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, urged the Maine Public Utilities Committee to give final approval to the winning transmission and distribution bids for the Northern Maine Renewable Energy Program.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support both the energy and forest products industry in Aroostook County received a public hearing in the Legislature’s Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee on Thursday. The proposal – LD 1913, “An Act To Prohibit Certain Wheeling Charges for the Transmission of Electricity – would prohibit an investor-owned transmission and distribution utility located in an area administered by the Northern Maine Independent System Administrator from charging a person generating or selling electricity for the transmission, or wheeling, of that electricity to or from Canada over the utility’s transmission system.”
Help homes switch to heat pumps or renewable heating
“This year, he co-sponsored legislation from Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, to increase access to affordable, energy-efficient housing and create good-paying construction jobs to build these units.”
“The second bill – LD 1622, “An Act To Promote the Use of Wood Pellet Central Heating Systems” – would increase incentives through Efficiency Maine to install wood pellet heating systems. The bill would allow Efficiency Maine to offer up to $10,000 incentives for residential and up to $20,000 for commercial and industrial installations of wood pellet heating systems. It would bring Maine’s incentives to switch to this renewable heating source more in line with other New England states.”
“Far too often, the people of northern Maine are left behind when it comes to energy costs, access to high-paying jobs and renewable energy production.”
“With challenges facing the pulp and paper industry, workers and businesses in the forest products industry have also embraced the biomass industry, which is good for our environment, economy and our wallets”
“In 2020, President Jackson successfully passed legislation to provide additional funding to Maine’s long-term care facilities, including Maine Veterans’ Homes.”
“As we look to reduce the rate of homelessness among veterans, improve access to health care and support veteran workers, businesses and entrepreneurs, Maine veterans must have a seat at the table. We must ensure their voices, experiences and input are heard and drive our work.”
“As we look to reduce the rate of homelessness among veterans, improve access to health care and support veteran workers, businesses and entrepreneurs, Maine veterans must have a seat at the table. We must ensure their voices, experiences and input are heard and drive our work.”
Other things the site says about defense and veterans (21)
“Today, the Maine Legislature gave initial approval to legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to prevent the closure of the Maine Veterans’ Homes in Caribou and Machias. The vote was unanimous in both the House and the Senate.”
“When the Maine Legislature established the Maine Veterans’ Homes, we made a commitment to the men and women serving in our nation’s armed forces to repay their service by making sure they could get the care they need in their later years. For 35 years, the state has kept this promise. To close these facilities now and move veterans out of their homes and away from their families for no good reason is simply unacceptable”
“On Wednesday, members of the Joint Standing Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs unanimously voted in favor of a bill to implement the recommendations from the Gagetown Harmful Chemical Studies Commission which was chaired by Senate President Jackson, D-Allagash, immediately following the public hearing.”
“On Friday, Governor Janet Mills signed into law legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, creating the Gagetown Harmful Chemical Study Commission.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to provide funding to the Maine Veterans’ Homes in the midst of a growing financial crisis faced by the organization was unanimously approved by the Legislature’s Veteran and Legal Affairs Committee last week immediately following the public hearing.”
“On Thursday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and Rep. Ron Russell, D-Verona Island, presented the final report from the Gagetown Harmful Chemical Study Commission to the Legislature’s Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee. The Commission concluded that the federal government is failing to support members of the National Guard harmed by the exposure to chemicals at the Canadian military support base in Gagetown, New Brunswick.”
“If the federal government continues to drag its feet, the state must step up to prove what our retired National Guard members have been saying for decades and demand action. We’ve seen this play out before with the burn pits in Iraq, the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and Agent Orange in Vietnam. It takes a relentless group of people pushing for change until the evidence is irrefutable and those exposed to harmful chemicals receive the health care benefits they are owed”
“The stakeholder group was created under a new law sponsored by President Jackson that prevented the closure of the facilities, provided additional funding and outlined a more transparent process for future closures that require Legislative approval.”
“More than anything, I want to ensure that the servicemembers who were exposed to harmful chemicals during their service at Gagetown have a chance to share their stories and make their voices heard”
“The vote came one day after Governor Mills signed into law LD 2001, legislation sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson to help keep the Maine Veterans’ Homes in Machias and Caribou open. The new law makes clear the intent of the Legislature in the creation of the Maine Veterans’ Homes; lays out a public and transparent closure process; and puts back into statute the six municipalities where Maine Veterans’ Homes must be located.”
“On Thursday, Governor Janet Mills signed legislation, sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson and enacted unanimously by the State Legislature, to keep Maine Veterans’ Homes in Caribou and Machias open.”
“Jackson also contrasted his record of fighting to protect Maine’s rural veterans’ homes with Collins’ support for legislation providing tens of billions of dollars to dramatically expand ICE operations.”
“Last Wednesday, the Maine Senate unanimously approved legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson that would improve funding for Maine Veterans’ Homes.”
“We cannot turn our backs on the brave men and women who have served our country or military spouses who now find themselves in need of quality, compassionate long-term care. Our veterans didn’t throw in the towel on us when things got tough. We shouldn’t either.”
“Right now, we have a bill that will provide one-time funding to keep the facility open, pay staff and care for residents. It also requires legislative approval for closing Maine Veterans Homes, which are partially funded by the state.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash to increase veteran participation in moose hunting in an initial vote on Tuesday. The bill – LD 708, “An Act To Expand Maine’s Moose Lottery To Benefit Wounded Service Members and Veterans” – would allow Mainers participating in the moose permit lottery to donate their permit to a wounded service member or veteran should they be selected in the public chance drawing.”
“Maine’s tax code is upside down. Working and middle-class families pay their taxes every paycheck, while the wealthiest people and biggest corporations too often benefit from loopholes, low rates, and special treatment. Troy Jackson believes it is time to fix that.”
“For too long, working and middle-class families have carried too much of the load while the very wealthy have been allowed to skate by. The Millionaires Tax is about basic fairness.”
“Troy also supports a tax on wealth proceeds so that income generated through accumulated wealth is no longer shielded from the kind of responsibility working people already carry every day. Wealth should not get special treatment just because it is structured differently on paper.”
“Troy supports working with other states on an interstate compact to pursue taxation of ultra-high net worth households, including a minimum 5 percent annual tax on assets above $1 billion.”
“In 2011, former Governor Paul LePage slashed funding for education, property tax relief, first responders, pensions for state workers and more, all so he could give tax breaks to his wealthy friends. Troy was one of only a handful of Democrats who stood strong and refused to support that bogus plan.”
“Put working people first: Cut taxes for working people, make corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share, and strengthen the right to organize.”
“Billionaires and big corporations aren't paying their fair share while working families struggle to make ends meet. Troy will make them pay, including by lifting the cap so the wealthiest Americans pay into Social Security at the same rate working people do.”
“Troy wants a tax code that puts more money back in the pockets of working and middle-class families instead of continuing to shower benefits on the wealthy and well-connected.”
Make the tax code fairer to working and middle-class families
“Maine’s tax code is upside down. Working and middle-class families pay their taxes every paycheck, while the wealthiest people and biggest corporations too often benefit from loopholes, low rates, and special treatment. Troy Jackson believes it is time to fix that.”
“Put working people first: Cut taxes for working people, make corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share, and strengthen the right to organize.”
“That's why I've been fighting back to protect Social Security and Medicare, and to cut taxes for working people, because you should keep more of what you earn.”
“Troy wants a tax code that puts more money back in the pockets of working and middle-class families instead of continuing to shower benefits on the wealthy and well-connected.”
“That’s why Troy will fight to cut taxes for working families so they keep more of what they earn, and expand the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit, so ordinary families get relief rather than people at the very top.”
“Maine’s tax code is upside down. Working and middle-class families pay their taxes every paycheck, while the wealthiest people and biggest corporations too often benefit from loopholes, low rates, and special treatment. Troy Jackson believes it is time to fix that.”
“Put working people first: Cut taxes for working people, make corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share, and strengthen the right to organize.”
“Billionaires and big corporations aren't paying their fair share while working families struggle to make ends meet. Troy will make them pay, including by lifting the cap so the wealthiest Americans pay into Social Security at the same rate working people do.”
“The Trump tax cuts that Senator Collins did support, I mean she votes for them 96 percent of the time, are killing our state, and that's what she's going to have to live with.”
“On Wednesday, the Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would increase property tax relief for Maine veterans. LD 576, “An Act To Increase Property Tax Relief for Veterans” increases the exemption amount from $6,000 to $10,000 for eligible Maine veterans.”
“Mainers aren’t supported to pay sales tax on basic essentials, but somehow menstrual products and diapers don’t fit the bill. It’s wrong and needs to change.”
“Maine families and small businesses are paying the price for a child care system that does not meet the need. If we want quality, affordable child care, we need the biggest and most profitable corporations to do their part.”
“Legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would provide property tax relief to Maine veterans, received initial approval in the Legislature’s Taxation Committee on Tuesday.”
“Property taxes in our state have been out of control. This is making it difficult for all people – whether they are veterans or otherwise – to live comfortably in their homes”
“The first bill extends an existing property tax relief program for veterans. Current law allows for a $6,000 property tax exemption for those who served in federally recognized war periods. LD 1194, “An Act To Increase Property Tax Relief for Veterans” would increase that exemption to $10,000.”
“The second bill provides targeted property tax relief towards disabled veterans. LD 1271, “An Act To Exempt Permanently Disabled Veterans from Payment of Property Tax” would provide a full property tax exemption to those who have been designated as 100 percent permanently disabled as a result of their service.”
“President Jackson and his colleagues have made property tax relief a top priority in the Legislature. In 2017, the Legislature increased the homestead exemption by 33 percent, bringing the total exemption up to $20,000. In 2018, the Legislature voted to increase the Property Tax Fairness Credit by nearly $11 million dollars, which allows Maine seniors to save up to $1,250 in property taxes and eligible working Mainers and families to save up to $800 on property taxes or rent.”
Expand access to child care, with more centers, slots and providers
Fix and strengthen child care for working families
“Last week, the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee unanimously approved Legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support child care providers.”
“This year, Pres. Jackson championed measures to provide access to lifesaving insulin, deliver property tax relief, expand access to quality child care and ban corporate contributions to political candidates.”
“The new coalition, Families for Troy, highlights support from educators and families who praise Jackson’s efforts in the Maine legislature fighting for issues affecting the next generation of Mainers, like universal school meals, lowering child care costs, and securing paid family leave.”
“Lower families’ costs: Pass Medicare for All, cut prescription drug prices, lower electricity bills, expand housing, and make child care more affordable.”
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced the Kids First plan, which includes two major pieces of legislation designed to improve access to child care and reduce student hunger, at a press conference alongside business leaders, providers, parents, students and advocates on Thursday.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash to expand access to quality, affordable child care in Maine.”
“Fifth-generation logger, former Maine Senate President, and Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Troy Jackson hit the airwaves yesterday, joining local news stations across the state to discuss his plan to make life more affordable for working-class people by protecting Social Security, expanding access to health care,and lowering the cost of prescription drugs.”
“Getting rid of the cap on social security is something that has been consistently talked about. Making sure that wealthier people pay the same rate that working class people do would definitely strengthen the social security system overall.”
“That's why I've been fighting back to protect Social Security and Medicare, and to cut taxes for working people, because you should keep more of what you earn.”
“Now, some of the richest people in the country are trying to kill Social Security. I won’t stand for it. I’ve fought against these same billionaires in Maine, and if I’m elected this November to the U.S. Senate, I’ll take that fight to Washington.”
“Here’s my plan for Social Security, to make sure it’s there for current and future retirees. First, we put Social Security on firmer financial ground by scrapping the cap.”
“Billionaires and big corporations aren't paying their fair share while working families struggle to make ends meet. Troy will make them pay, including by lifting the cap so the wealthiest Americans pay into Social Security at the same rate working people do.”
Support Meals on Wheels and home food delivery for seniors
“At the same time, he voted to boost in-home and community support services for older Mainers in need of daily assistance and supported funding for Meals on Wheels.”
Other things the site says about Social Security and welfare (7)
“Child care is the backbone of our economy, but it’s breaking the backs of working families. We’ve got parents in Maine paying more for childcare than they pay for rent. Childcare workers can’t afford to take care of their own families on what they’re getting paid. And young families are leaving the state because they can’t find or afford child care.”
“People who work hard their entire lives should be able to retire with dignity. They should be able to afford food, medicine, and a roof over their heads without wondering whether the benefits they spent decades earning will be there.”
“If parents don’t have a safe place to drop their kids off to learn while they go to work, how can we expect parents to make ends meet for their families? And if child care workers aren’t supported, how can we expect them to stay open?”
“Too many Maine children and families lack access to quality, affordable child care. At the same time, Maine child care providers continue to operate at a loss to care for our kids. The system isn’t working for anyone and it’s only been made worse by the pandemic”
“As a legislator, I hear all the time about the housing crisis in our state. From Kittery to Fort Kent, folks are struggling to find affordable, quality housing. Making a strategic investment in ASCC is a critical step in solving this problem”
“There is no reason it should have taken this long to release these bonds. It was the will of the voters, it will make affordable housing more available and lead to more construction jobs.”
“Lower families’ costs: Pass Medicare for All, cut prescription drug prices, lower electricity bills, expand housing, and make child care more affordable.”
“Two thirds of our largest mobile home parks have been bought up by private equity. Private equity has been buying up our lives, making it harder for people in this country under Susan Collins' watch. That is something that when I'm in the U.S. Senate, I'm going to take on because that's what I do, and I can't stand this bullshit anymore.”
“This year, he co-sponsored legislation from Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, to increase access to affordable, energy-efficient housing and create good-paying construction jobs to build these units.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved legislation to improve access to affordable housing in Maine on Thursday. LD 1645, “An Act To Create Affordable Workforce and Senior Housing and Preserve Affordable Rural Housing” from Rep. Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford, and co-sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and Sen. Cathy Breen, D-Falmouth, would double the current rate of new affordable housing production in Maine.”
Other things the site says about housing and community development (7)
“Working families are being priced out of Maine while Wall Street investors and out-of-state millionaires buy up our communities. From Kittery to Fort Kent, too many of the people who actually make this state run can’t afford to live here anymore.”
“Private equity firms are snatching up homes and pricing out working families. They’re treating our communities like an investment opportunity while teachers and nurses can’t afford rent.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash to help the Loring Development Authority navigate the COVID-19 pandemic received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Committee on Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business on Thursday.”
“The base has too much potential; we can’t give up on it now or let it go to waste. With a little help from the state, LDA can get through this economic crisis and continue with its important work.”
“Last year, President Jackson sponsored similar legislation to support food processing and manufacturing in rural Maine. The new law helped facilitate the construction of the Penobscot McCrum processing plant in Washburn.”
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, presented LD 1871, “An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Invest in a Green Energy Materials Building at the University of Maine,” to the Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs. The bill would provide funding to the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center, known as ASCC, to develop technology for the mass production of 3-D printed homes.”
“I’ve fought to lower prescription drug costs and feed kids at school. I’ll bring that same fight to Washington, lower people’s bills, and take on the corruption that shuts working people out.”
“Troy believes members of Congress should be serving their constituents, not using privileged access to information or government decisions to make money in the stock market.”
“He supports a comprehensive ban on members of Congress trading individual stocks — a ban Susan Collins has opposed — and would back legislation that requires covered assets to be divested or placed beyond a member’s control.”
Require disclosure of political donors and end dark money
Ban corporate PAC donations and corporate election spending
Fund campaigns publicly, such as by matching small donations
Refuse corporate PAC money for their own campaign
Refuse campaign money from AIPAC
Refuse campaign money from lobbyists
“This year, Pres. Jackson championed measures to provide access to lifesaving insulin, deliver property tax relief, expand access to quality child care and ban corporate contributions to political candidates.”
“This session, President Jackson co-sponsored legislation along with Sen. Louie Luchini, D-Ellsworth, to ban corporate contributions to political candidates running for state office.”
“In the Senate, he'll fight for a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and for publicly financed federal campaigns modeled on Maine's Clean Election system.”
Rein in executive overreach and restore the balance of powers
“The two leaders shared their plans to work together to pass Medicare for All, put a check on Trump’s dangerous and illegal policies, and put working people first.”
“On Wednesday, the Maine Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee advanced a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to support state and federal workers during prolonged government shutdowns.”
“On Tuesday, the Legislature’s Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee overwhelmingly endorsed a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash to support Maine’s federal workers during any government shutdown occurring this calendar year.”
“No one should have to work without pay. But when the government shut down for more than a month around the holidays, that is exactly what happened for 1,000 Mainers. The government shut down, the paychecks stopped, but the bills and the work did not”
“However, with the influx of corporate money and special interests in our politics, it’s hard for regular people to compete and ensure their voice is heard”
“On Tuesday, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, filed after-deadline legislation to provide temporary relief to federal workers affected by the federal government shutdown. The bill would provide a state guarantee on loans from banks and credit unions to federal government employees living in Maine, who have been furloughed without pay or who have been required to work without pay during the longest shutdown in this country’s history.”
“Jackson’s proposal — modeled after legislation recently passed in Connecticut — would provide a state guarantee on private loans from banks and credit unions to federal government employees living in Maine, who have been required to work without pay.”
“Troy believes elections should be decided by voters, not billionaires, corporations, and dark-money groups able to spend unlimited sums with little transparency.”
“Artificial intelligence is here, brought to us by tech billionaire oligarchs who assure us it will make every human obsolete. They think they can replace critical human decisionmaking with machines. They’re wrong.”
“While more capable machines hold real promise in improving our lives, unregulated, they also threaten to steal our jobs, hijack our minds, worsen our isolation, and harm our children.”
“The point of our technology ought to be to increase the power we have over our lives—not to take it away. AI companies are terrified of regulation because many of them want to use their product to try and replace and control us.”
Expand high-speed internet access, including in rural areas
Expand cell phone coverage in rural areas
“A bill sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to create a state plan to improve cell phone coverage in rural Maine was signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills on Monday.”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would increase cell phone coverage in rural Maine received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee on Wednesday.”
“While increasing access to reliable, high-speed internet is essential to keep Maine a competitive place for business and tourism, increasing access to cell phone coverage is also important. Both are critical to the economic future of this state and long overdue for the people of Maine.”
“The Maine Senate unanimously enacted a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would create a state plan to improve cell phone coverage in rural Maine on Tuesday. LD 1603, “Resolve, To Coordinate a Plan to Expand Cellular Telephone Service” will now go to the governor’s desk.”
“Improving rural cell phone coverage is vital for attracting and retaining young people, ensuring students can compete in the workforce and helping small businesses connect with customers”
Other things the site says about science, technology and communications (3)
“Your personal information: your voice, your image, your writing, your art, your medical records, your school records, your child’s records… they’re yours. They don’t belong to an AI company so they can train their machines and sell your data back to you without your knowledge or consent.”
“The lack of cell phone coverage is more than just an inconvenience. It holds back our rural economy when businesses cannot use their cellphone at their place of work and it’s a safety hazard when Mainers cannot call for emergency services should they get in an accident on their way home from work”
“I’ve fought to lower prescription drug costs and feed kids at school. I’ll bring that same fight to Washington, lower people’s bills, and take on the corruption that shuts working people out.”
Keep factories here and bring offshored manufacturing back
Give American-made goods preference in government purchases
Give tax incentives to companies that make goods and hire here
“Today, the Maine Senate approved legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to establish the Buy American and Build Maine Act in a vote of 22-12.”
“If there is work that needs to be done in this state and in this country, and taxpayers are footing the bill, then the people living, working and paying taxes in this state and country should have the opportunity to do the job. And if there are materials or parts needed to do the job, those materials should be American-made whenever possible.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced Buy American, Build Maine legislation alongside Maine-based businesses at a public hearing before the Legislature’s State and Local Government Committee. LD 1411, “An Act To Establish the Maine Buy American and Build Maine Act” would give preference to Maine-based businesses, workers and American manufacturing when the state awards procurement contracts.”
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to support good-paying paper manufacturing jobs in rural, economically distressed areas of the state. LD 2123, “An Act To Create Fairness in the Revitalization of Maine’s Paper Industry,” creates a tax credit for paper manufacturing companies headquartered in Maine, like the Twin River Paper Mill in Madawaska, that maintain high levels of employment and pay workers above-average salaries for the area.”
Other things the site says about economy and the federal budget (4)
“A handful of billionaires should not be able to accumulate massive fortunes while working families struggle to afford housing, child care, and rising costs. Extreme wealth concentration is bad for democracy, bad for fairness, and bad for Maine.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash, House Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford, Senator Cathy Breen of Falmouth, and Representative Teresa Pierce of Falmouth, proposed the “Back-to-Basics” Biennial Budget in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under this proposal, the Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee would vote out a smart, responsible biennial budget that pays the bills and funds existing services by the end of the week to provide Maine people, schools and businesses with stability as the economy reopens.”
“At a time when Maine workers and businesses are anxiously waiting for some much-needed relief, the supplemental budget should invest resources where we need them most. Today, Democrats on the budget committee adopted a proposal that supports more than 160,000 working Mainers and the more than 28,270 businesses that participated in the Paycheck Protection Program.”
“For the past two years, my colleagues and I have worked hard to pass commonsense budgets that deliver for working families, communities, small businesses and retirees. At the same time, we continued to set money aside in the Rainy Day Fund for the future. As a result, Maine’s Rainy Day Fund is now at the highest it’s ever been in the state’s history — nearly $900 million.”
“Today, the Maine Senate unanimously approved legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson to increase funding for the Maine School of Science and Mathematics in Limestone.”
“Maine voters have told us in no uncertain terms that the state needs to be doing its part to take care of our schools and help local government. It’s high time we kept that promise.”
“MEA pointed to Jackson’s decades-long record of standing with working people and fighting for teachers and public education — from securing investments in Maine schools, raising wages for school employees, protecting the pension system, and delivering universal school meals so every student can learn on a full stomach.”
“This year, he voted to continue funding free, universal school meals, fully fund education at 55 percent, invest in career and technical education, and provide two years of free community college for Maine high school graduates from the graduating classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.”
“Other highlights include establishing the Education Rainy Day Fund. This will alleviate property tax burdens and guarantee that Maine can meet its obligation to fund schools at 55 percent as mandated by voters in 2004.”
“It’s why I’m thrilled that after years of fighting to fund public education and honor the will of Maine voters, the state is finally on track to meet the 55 percent threshold for K-12 public education funding.”
Make trade school and community college affordable and open to all
“Today, Maine Senate Democrats voted in favor of a historic investment in Maine businesses and working families who experienced profound hardship and extraordinary tragedy throughout this pandemic. It will lift up the farmers and fishermen who have suffered greatly after the demand for local foods disappeared overnight when restaurants had to close their dining rooms, while also boosting small businesses all across the state. It will help Maine seniors and individuals with disabilities afford to stay in their homes while supporting family caregivers and working to build a robust direct care workforce. And, it will make long-overdue investments in our career technical education and workforce training programs, while also working to close gaps in our health care workforce and system”
“This year, he voted to continue funding free, universal school meals, fully fund education at 55 percent, invest in career and technical education, and provide two years of free community college for Maine high school graduates from the graduating classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.”
Raise pay and protections for school support staff and paraprofessionals
Protect educators' right to unionize and bargain collectively
Improve teachers' benefits, pensions and loan forgiveness
“MEA pointed to Jackson’s decades-long record of standing with working people and fighting for teachers and public education — from securing investments in Maine schools, raising wages for school employees, protecting the pension system, and delivering universal school meals so every student can learn on a full stomach.”
“My mom was a public school teacher, so I grew up seeing how much educators give to their students and their communities. They deserve fair pay, strong benefits, the freedom to organize, and leaders who will listen to them and stand up for public schools”
“President Jackson also cosponsored a new law to ensure the administrators, teachers and education technicians working in Maine’s unorganized territories are paid fairly compared to their colleagues in other parts of the state.”
“This year, he voted to continue funding free, universal school meals, fully fund education at 55 percent, invest in career and technical education, and provide two years of free community college for Maine high school graduates from the graduating classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.”
Teach more subjects such as STEM, arts, civics, health and personal finance
“Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to create a state-of-the-art mobile learning lab at a public hearing before the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee on Tuesday. The mobile learning lab would expand traditional education opportunities in life science and engineering for public school students across the state.”
“In the legislature, Troy fought hard to successfully lower prescription drug prices, passed universal school meals, protected union jobs, expanded rural health care, delivered property tax relief, safeguarded our environment, and championed and passed some of the strongest reproductive health protections anywhere in the country.”
“As Senate President, he fought to lower prescription drug costs, pass universal school meals, deliver property tax relief, protect rural health care, defend our environment, and make sure Maine workers get fair wages, decent benefits, and a voice on the job.”
“The new coalition, Families for Troy, highlights support from educators and families who praise Jackson’s efforts in the Maine legislature fighting for issues affecting the next generation of Mainers, like universal school meals, lowering child care costs, and securing paid family leave.”
“A fifth-generation logger, union member, and former Maine Senate President, Jackson has delivered lower prescription drug costs, universal school meals, paid family and medical leave, and collective bargaining rights for loggers.”
“MEA pointed to Jackson’s decades-long record of standing with working people and fighting for teachers and public education — from securing investments in Maine schools, raising wages for school employees, protecting the pension system, and delivering universal school meals so every student can learn on a full stomach.”
“Former President Barack Obama endorsed Troy Jackson for U.S. Senate yesterday, highlighting the fifth-generation logger’s working-class roots and record of lowering prescription drug costs, raising wages, delivering free school meals, and protecting abortion rights.”
“This year, he voted to continue funding free, universal school meals, fully fund education at 55 percent, invest in career and technical education, and provide two years of free community college for Maine high school graduates from the graduating classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.”
“If we want Maine students to get the best education possible, we need to ensure teachers have the resources and support necessary to help our kids thrive.”
“CTE schools like Region Two provide Maine students with foundations for solid career pathways right here in the state, helping grow our workforce and sustain our economy.”
“The unfortunate reality is that many small and isolated towns do not have the funds to provide the costly and always-changing scientific equipment, technology, and experiences that all students need access to”
Keep guns away from criminals, domestic abusers and others who pose a danger
Reduce gun violence
“On Wednesday, Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash, House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross of Portland, and members of Democratic Legislative Leadership released a comprehensive suite of legislation designed to reduce gun violence and bolster public health.”
“As a proud sportsman, I have to believe that level-headed people can come together to build a safer Maine – one that recognizes and respects our second amendment rights while also keeping weapons out of the hands of dangerous people”
Fund police departments and give them the resources they need
“Last week, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation that would increase the municipal revenue sharing program to better support local law enforcement, fire departments and emergency medical services across the state. LD 1060, “An Act to Support Municipal Public Safety by Increasing State Municipal Revenue Sharing to 7 Percent” received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Taxation Committee Thursday, March 30.”
“Public safety hinges on local law enforcement, fire departments and emergency medical service departments. However, the challenges plaguing public safety departments from updating buildings and equipment to hiring and retaining staff are mounting and have now reached crisis levels”
“The Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to expand access to justice and legal representation in rural Maine. LD 1924, “An Act To Expand Access to Justice in Rural Maine through Legal Education” would authorize the University of Maine School of Law to open a satellite rural legal aid clinic in Fort Kent.”
“Whether it’s keeping our roads and bridges safe for loggers and truckers or ensuring culvert upgrades to protect our drinking water and natural resources, investments in our infrastructure are critically important for Maine’s economy and everyday life”
“Whether you’re a hunter or a hiker, I want all Maine people to have access to outdoor experiences on a landscape that is richly biodiverse and pollution-free.”
“Mainers deserve to know that our forests are managed in a thoughtful and comprehensive way. It’s time for the state to ensure that all the voices in Maine’s forest management process–from small woodland owners, to environmental organizations, to tribal members, and the folks doing the dangerous and grueling work–are heard.”
“I believe it is not only critical to fund our land conservation programs, but to make sure that the state focuses their conservation efforts on both rare and high biodiversity areas to support land and water connectivity and ecosystem health.”
“Maine’s environment and natural landscape are too important for the future of our state to take for granted. It’s why Maine lawmakers must continue to protect Maine’s way of life, and the environment that makes it possible, for the next generations of children, workers and families.”
“This year, President Jackson supported a landmark investment in the Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program, led by Sen. Cathy Breen, D-Falmouth, Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee.”
“President Jackson also introduced legislation to ban the aerial spraying of the toxic chemical known as glyphosate for the purpose of forestry in the Maine woods. Although the measure received strong support in both the House and Senate, it failed to become law.”
“Today, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, introduced legislation to ban the aerial spraying of toxic herbicides in forestry at a public hearing before the Legislature’s Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee.”
“While this announcement was long overdue, I’m grateful that the new rules will take effect in time for the holiday season. It’s good for Aroostook County families, businesses and the region’s economy.”
“Jackson called for accountability following recent ICE activity in Maine and condemned the massive expansion of an agency operating with too little transparency or oversight.”
“Troy supports an immigration system that respects due process and human rights, is accountable to the public, and focuses resources on genuine public-safety threats rather than indiscriminate raids and deportations.”
Focus immigration enforcement on violent criminals, not law-abiding immigrants
Guarantee due process before anyone is deported
“Troy supports an immigration system that respects due process and human rights, is accountable to the public, and focuses resources on genuine public-safety threats rather than indiscriminate raids and deportations.”
“Immigrants aren't deciding whether you can afford health care, gas or groceries, and immigrants sure as hell aren't the reason that working people have been getting screwed in this country my whole damn life”
“Donald Trump has unleashed ICE agents across Maine in military-style raids he’s calling “Operation Catch of the Day.” Trump is treating our neighbors like fish to be caught and thrown away. Agents are showing up at schools, hospitals, and churches. They’re entering homes without warrants. They’re violating the constitutional rights of Mainers, including U.S. citizens, because of how they look or sound.”
“President Jackson also supported legislation to fully implement ranked-choice voting, to open up Maine’s primary system to unenrolled voters, to include racial impact statements as part of the legislative process, and other measures protecting the rights of Maine people to vote.”
“He would support the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to strengthen federal voting-rights protections and the PRO Act to make it easier for workers to form unions, collectively bargain, and hold employers accountable for violating organizing rights.”
“Troy will fight to pass the Equality Act and defend marriage equality so LGBTQ+ Mainers are protected in health care, jobs, housing, and public life.”
“He's promised to always stand with Maine's LGBTQ+ community and fight for equal protection under the law, including protection from discrimination in healthcare, employment, and housing.”
Other things the site says about civil rights and liberties (2)
“President Jackson also advocated in favor of a bill from Assistant House Majority Leader Rep. Rachel Talbot Ross, D-Portland, which requires the Legislature to consider racial impact statements alongside proposed legislation.”
Aid small businesses when disasters and crises hit
Support small businesses
“On Monday, Governor Janet Mills signed into law legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to help small businesses hit the hardest by electric rate increases.”
“Our sole proprietors are in crisis and they desperately need help. As state lawmakers, we’re calling on the federal delegation to make sure our small business owners can get the help they need.”
“Today, Maine Senate Democrats voted in favor of a historic investment in Maine businesses and working families who experienced profound hardship and extraordinary tragedy throughout this pandemic. It will lift up the farmers and fishermen who have suffered greatly after the demand for local foods disappeared overnight when restaurants had to close their dining rooms, while also boosting small businesses all across the state. It will help Maine seniors and individuals with disabilities afford to stay in their homes while supporting family caregivers and working to build a robust direct care workforce. And, it will make long-overdue investments in our career technical education and workforce training programs, while also working to close gaps in our health care workforce and system”
“On Wednesday, the Maine Senate unanimously approved a bill from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, that would deliver rate relief to more than 60 eligible businesses that did not receive the energy credit authorized by the Legislature last year.”
“In 2022, President Jackson introduced legislation — LD 2010, An Act to Help Maine Residents with High Electricity Costs — creating a tiered credit for eligible small businesses and organizations that were impacted by increases in electricity costs caused by the spike in the price of natural gas and its effect on the standard offer. The program successfully delivered energy relief to just under 3,000 businesses that are considered “medium-general service” under the standard offer.”
“Bogus noncompete agreements stand in the way of healthy economic competition and innovation by unfairly trapping workers in jobs under the guise of protecting trade secrets. There is a time and place for noncompete agreements but they should be used appropriately.”
Other things the site says about business and commerce (3)
“The bill establishes a tax credit to help make city-owned Hadlock Field ADA accessible, support good-paying jobs and incentivize millions in capital investment”
“A bill from Senate President Troy Jackson of Allagash to honor and recognize the skill and rich history of Maine Guides received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee on Monday.”
“People all across the country have long come to Maine to participate in the outdoor recreational opportunities our state has to offer, whether it’s hunting, snowmobiling, hiking or fishing. It only makes sense to do everything we can to ensure that this economic activity supports Maine jobs and small businesses”
“Whether it’s keeping our roads and bridges safe for loggers and truckers or ensuring culvert upgrades to protect our drinking water and natural resources, investments in our infrastructure are critically important for Maine’s economy and everyday life”
Other things the site says about transportation and infrastructure (2)
“Bringing back yardmasters at Rigby to coordinate safe train movements and emergency response is one of the many steps CSX could take to prevent the next derailment from being a toxic one”
“This is a tax on the consumers here in Maine, and we're feeling it, and it's really become really challenging. So, I absolutely disagree with this. I think it's I think it is stupid. These broad-based tariffs are killing the state, and it's going to be hard to put it back together.”
“I have yet to meet anyone who thinks that blanket tariffs on Canada are a good idea. I think people may argue that one or two things should change, but putting tariffs on Canada unilaterally is idiotic”
“Protecting our existing public lands and time-honored tradition of access to private lands is critical to sustaining Maine’s way of life for current and future generations. The purchase of large tracts of Maine land from out-of-state buyers threatens our outdoor economies and way of life.”
Other things the site says about public lands, water and tribal affairs (1)
“The Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry Committee voted 6-3 on Tuesday to pass a bill sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, requiring the construction of a facility in Fort Kent to house the district headquarters for the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.”
Other things the site says about foreign affairs and aid (1)
“Troy believes what's happening in Gaza is a genocide, that Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal, and the U.S. government has a responsibility to not enable that suffering.”
Other things the site says about agriculture and food (3)
“Farming is a critical part of Maine’s heritage, character and economy. As extreme weather conditions persist, the state must partner with individual farmers and industry leaders and take proactive steps to protect this key economic sector and important part of who we are”
“On Tuesday, Governor Janet Mills signed legislation from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to help Maine farmers respond to extreme weather conditions and support the state’s agricultural economy.”
“In 2022, the Maine Legislature passed a new law from Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, to help farmers respond to drought conditions. The new law established a drought relief grant program for farmers.”
