AUGUSTA - Rep. Colleen Madigan, D-Waterville, introduced legislation Tuesday before the Legislature's Housing Committee that would increase the nightly rate that the state pays low-barrier shelters.
Currently, Maine only has five low-barrier shelters, which do not require individuals to be in substance use or mental health treatment, or actively participate in other programs, as long as they follow the safety rules of the shelter. The current nightly rate that the state pays these shelters is the same as the regular nightly shelter rate. However, operating costs are higher for low-barrier shelters, as staff need additional training in overdose prevention, the use of Narcan and de-escalation tactics in the event of a mental health crisis. With these increased costs, many are facing significant financial shortfalls.
"Maine's low-barrier shelters provide so much more than shelter from rain and cold. They are vital components of our housing and public health systems," said Madigan." At a time when our substance use, mental health and housing crises are raging concurrently, it is crucial that we continue to assist these shelters."
The Legislature's Housing Committee will hold a work session on the bill in the coming weeks.
Madigan is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents House District 64, which includes parts of Waterville and Winslow. She serves on the Legislature's Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Madigan], c. 305-965-2744