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January 30, 2009 Jay Finegan, 287-1445
Rep. Tardy, Sen. Raye Testify For Newport Attorney Recommended for Human Rights Position

AUGUSTA – State Rep. Josh Tardy and State Sen. Kevin Raye provided testimony today in support of Kenneth W. Fredette, whom Governor Baldacci has recommended for a position on the Maine Human Rights Commission. Mr. Fredette was unanimously approved by the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee today and now awaits confirmation by the Maine Senate.

“I appreciate Ken’s willingness to serve the people of Maine in this important role,” said Rep. Tardy (R-Newport). “His unanimous approval by Judiciary Committee is a reflection on his distinguished professional and public service career. I have no doubt that he will be a tremendous asset to the commission and its important work.”

Mr. Fredette is a lawyer in private practice with offices in Newport. He also serves as a major in the judge advocate general section of the Maine Air National Guard.

He currently serves on the Town of Newport Planning Board of Appeals and as president of the Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union. He has been involved in coaching soccer and baseball at the high school and farm league levels. He is a graduate of the University of Maine at Machias, and in 1994 graduated from the University of Maine School of Law. Mr. Fredette also earned a master’s degree from the Ed Muskie School for Public Service at the University of Southern Maine.

The Maine Human Rights Commission, established in 1971, is the state agency charged with the responsibility of enforcing Maine’s anti-discrimination laws. The commission investigates complaints of unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, education, access to public accommodations, extension of credit and offensive names. The panel consists of five commissioners who serve five-year terms.

Rep. Tardy is the leader of the House Republicans in the Maine Legislature. Sen. Raye, of Perry, is leader of the Senate Republicans.

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