LD 1815

Would create a Citizen Trade Policy Commission to strengthen Maine’s voice in future trade agreements. The commission would assess economic impact of trade agreements, hold public hearings throughout Maine, get feedback from other states and make recommendations to state lawmakers, the congressional delegation and federal trade negotiators.

Sponsor: Speaker Patrick Colwell, D-Gardiner. Status: before the Labor Committee.

LD 608

When awarding a bid for public improvement construction project, the Department of Administrative and Financial Services could give preference to domestic suppliers whose bids are within 15 percent of a foreign supplier bid. The preference would only apply to the extent permitted under federal law and international treaties.

Sponsored by Sen. Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston; State and Local Government Committee recommended ought to pass. Status: before the Senate.

LD 607

Passed last year, directed a study to look at how the North American Free Trade Agreement impacted Maine jobs. A study released in December concluded there were winners and losers. The winners: potatoes, blueberries and aquaculture. The losers: the wood industry (including paper mills), food processing and metals.

Sponsor: Sen. Peggy Rotundo, D-Lewiston. Status: a public hearing to receive input on the study is scheduled for Friday before the Business and Economic Development Committee.