Bartlett Outlines Legislative Priorities

Phil Bartlett (D-Cumberland County), one of Westbrook's two state senators, was the focus of a Press Herald piece on the challenges facing the Legislature when it opens for business on December 3 (though the next session doesn't officially begin until January 6, legislators will be sworn in and committees will begin meeting on December 3).

State Sen. Bartlett, who was recently elected as majority leader in the Senate, defined the Legislature's priorities for the upcoming session:

1. Cut spending in order to counter a $150 million shortfall for the current fiscal year.
2. Decrease Maine's dependance on foreign oil by expanding the use of alternative energy.
3. Institute tax reform that shifts the tax burden from residents to visitors (e.g., lodging and meals taxes).

To see if Bartlett represents your neck of the woods (or ribbon of pavement, as the case may be), click here.

- John C.L. Morgan