Commentary: Bills call for responsible development of Maine’s offshore wind industry

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • June 6, 2023

The dangerous impacts of climate change are already upon us, and unless we take bold – and smart – action, the crisis is going to get worse. A coalition of environmental, labor, faith and frontline climate justice organizations supports a responsible approach to the development of offshore wind that will strengthen our state’s economy, protect workers, benefit Maine communities and produce clean, renewable power. L.D. 1895 creates a procurement schedule and establishes necessary labor, equity, environmental and wildlife standards, while helping to keep offshore wind development outside of Lobster Management Area 1 to protect our vital fisheries and fishing communities. L.D. 1818 sets important environmental and labor standards for port facilities that are needed to support offshore wind development. ~ Maureen Drouin, Maine Conservation Voters, and Francis Eanes, Maine Labor Climate Council