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Senator Justin M. Chenette P.O. Box 315 Saco, Maine 04072

129th Legislature Senate of Maine Senate District 31

Office (207)287-1515 Cell (207)590-3266

Dear Friends and Residents of Hollis: This past legislative session I championed a more ethical, transparent, and accountable government. It’s been a passion of mine since I entered the legislature back in 2012. As chairman of the bipartisan Government Oversight Committee and as a member of the Senate Ethics Committee, I fought to strengthen our laws to ensure legislators are operating above board and lobbyists don’t have undue influence. I introduced a campaign finance reform package to hold lawmakers, lobbyists and former officials to a high ethical standard. One bill closes a loophole that allowed lawmakers to become lobbyists right after their service ended. This will mean we are closer to ending the revolving door of lawmakers becoming lobbyists. Legislators shouldn’t be using their i nfluence to get a slick, high paying lobbying gig nor carrying out public policy with that as the end goal in mind. The second bill exacts ethics reforms to make sure legislators do not use political action committees to benefit themselves and profit off political contributions. PACs have no contribution limits, so removing profit from the equation will create fewer conflicts of interests in our politics. Both of these bills passed with unanimous, bipartisan support in the House and Senate and were signed into law by the Governor. It demonstrates what can be done when you have a good idea, listen to those who disagree with you and come together for a common purpose. The third bill is probably the most impactful of all: It bans lobbyist contributions to candidates and elected officials. This represents the biggest campaign finance reform win in over a decade. This new anti-corruption law will make it harder for special interests to buy access and influence, to ensure we have a government that truly works for Maine people. Maine now joins five other states — Alaska, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee and California — that already ban lobbyist contributions. While there is always more work to do, I believe my efforts this past session moves the needle towards making Maine have the strongest ethics rules in the country. You deserve a government that serves you over wealthy donors, special interest groups, and corporate lobbyists. Your voice should be heard the loudest. Legislators should be the peoples’ lob byists. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns, or comments. Thank you for the opportunity to continue serving and fighting for you in the Senate. This is your seat. I work for you.

Proudly Representing Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Hollis, Limington and Buxton Email: Justin.Chenette@legislature.maine.gov * Website: justinchenette.com

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