Maine House 47

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Re-Elect State Rep. Janice Cooper

Occupation:
Attorney (retired) and legislator

Education:
Vassar, BA; Yale Law School, JD

Community Organizations:
Founder, Yarmouth Arts

Personal information (hobbies, etc.):
Writing, art, walking, kayaking, gardening, travel

Family status:
Separated

Years in the Legislature: 6

Committee assignments (if elected):
Energy, Utilities and Technology; Taxation; Insurance and Financial Services; Environment and Natural Resources; Elections

Q&A

1) What legislation do you support, if any, to address the state’s opiate crisis?
More facilities to treat people with addictions, using the full array of effective treatments, including medications to control cravings. More locally-based clinics. Education that addiction is a disease.

2) What legislation do you support, if any, to address failures in the state’s child abuse prevention system?
More and better trained case workers. Better support for foster parents. Better monitoring system of children under state care.

3) Should schools continue to push forward with proficiency-based diplomas? Why or why not?
Schools should have that option, and all should follow proficiency-based goals, but denying a diploma to a student who has passed course work is too harsh.

4) Are you in favor of some type of universal health care for Maine residents? Why, or why not?
Yes. Access to affordable, quality health care should be a fundamental right. It is also essential for a prospering economy.

5) Do you support Question 1 (the 3.8% tax to fund the home care program)? Why, or why not?
I have problems with a number of aspects but, as with past referendums adopted by the people, acceptance will tell the Legislature that they view this need as great and the Legislature will fix it.

6) Are you frustrated by the political sniping, exaggeration and even lies between the parties and their supporters that have threatened progress usually reached through respect and reasoned compromise? If so, what will you personally do to make the situation better?

Of course. But do not blame both sides equally. Following the dictates of the governor, House Republicans have refused to come to the table more often than not.

7) Tell voters something about yourself that they don’t already know, and might surprise them.
I was drawn to run for the Legislature after my daughter died. She loved Maine and was a humanist dedicated to making the world a better place. I vowed to follow her lead.

Speed Round

Should voters be required to show ID at the polls? No