One in eight Maine drinking water wells contain hidden toxic chemicals like arsenic, which can elevate the risk of cancer and cause learning disabilities. Arsenic has no smell, taste, or color, and many Mainers do not know that they should test their wells for it. LD 454 will raise awareness about the need to test for arsenic and will establish the Private Well Safe Drinking Water Fund. The Fund will help low-income Mainers purchase well water test kits. The bill also requires the creation of one simplified, state-recommended water test for contaminants. The bill was enacted by the legislature, vetoed by the governor, and failed on the override vote in 2016. Rep. Vachon reintroduced the bill in 2017. Once again, the bill passed the legislature with large margins and was vetoed. However, this time the legislature voted to override the veto. The veto override votes are scored here.
YES IS THE PRO ENVIRONMENT VOTE
| District | Name | Vote |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | Catherine Breen | |
| 27 | Benjamin M. Chipman | |
| 16 | Scott W. Cyrway | |
| 4 | Paul T. Davis | |
| 32 | Susan A. Deschambault | |
| 26 | Bill Diamond | |
| 5 | James F. Dill | |
| 1 | Troy Dale Jackson | |
| 18 | Lisa Keim | |
| 21 | Nathan L. Libby | |
| 29 | Rebecca J. Millett | |
| 12 | David R. Miramant | |
| 8 | Kimberley C. Rosen | |
| 23 | Eloise A. Vitelli | |
| 33 | David C. Woodsome | |