By Rep. Peter Edgecomb(R-Caribou)
I will highlight three activities that occurred in Augusta this past Thursday, Feb. 12.
Aroostook leaders met with County Legislators to update us on the extension of Interstate 95 North of Houlton. Work on this project that began 15 years ago is still not close to actual construction. It does appear that building a Caribou bypass may be the first road segment to be funded. City Manager, Steven Buck, reported to the Aroostook Delegation on the current status as approved by the City Council. The Presque Isle bypass would most likely follow the Caribou work.
Two Caribou citizens provided testimony to the Judiciary Committee in support of my bill, LD 25, “An Act To Protect Child Victims of Sexual Abuse.” The committee was impressed with the valuable information they provided. Parents or guardians are reluctant to have their child face the accused in court where they would be traumatized again. This legislation would help bring justice where needed and possibly prevent a predator from victimizing another child.
The Taxation Committee considered my bill, LD 72, “An Act Regarding the Tax on Fuel used for Commercial Agriculture, Fishing and Forestry”. The goal was to set a limit of five cents per gallon sales tax on fuel for off-road use by the above enterprises. The revenue would be used in the transportation budget instead of going to the general fund.
Before this session adjourns in June, the Legislature will consider nearly 2,000 bills.
I can be reached at home: 132 Baird Road, Caribou ME 04736; by home phone: 496-3188; by Legislative phone 287-1440; or by e-mail: pedgecom@maine.rr.com
