We would like to thank the Maine State Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee for its recent leadership and unanimous support for strengthening and protecting the Fund for a Healthy Maine (FHM), a cornerstone of Maine’s public health and prevention efforts.

One bill directs a portion of the state’s tobacco excise tax revenue to the FHM. This is a smart and responsible step that ensures funding for prevention programs, like those that reduce tobacco use, prevent substance misuse and support healthier communities, is stable and secure for years to come.

Equally important is a second bill that creates an FHM Stabilization Account using a portion of unallocated tobacco settlement payments received in the future. This forward-looking approach puts Maine on track to save roughly $25 million in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, along with an estimated $1.3 million annually thereafter. Setting these funds aside will further stabilize the Fund by creating a modest but vital financial cushion for the future.

Together, these actions reflect strong fiscal stewardship and a clear commitment to investing in prevention rather than paying for more costly health outcomes down the road. The FHM has helped communities across our state come together to improve health, support young people and reduce preventable disease. Protecting this special fund is an investment in Maine’s long-term well-being.

We are grateful to the lawmakers who recognize the value of prevention and have taken meaningful steps to safeguard this critical resource for the health of Maine people and communities.

Renee Page
MPH, PS-C Executive Director, Healthy Communities of the Capital Area
Hallowell

April Hughes
DrPH, MPH, PS-C Program Manager, Healthy Communities of the Capital Area
China