From the Legislature

State increases number of foreclosure prevention counselorsState officials recently took action to increase the number of counselors available to assist Maine homeowners in avoiding foreclosure. The Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection signed contracts with two nonprofit licensing agencies, and is working on agreements with four more, with the goal of adding at least six certified counselors statewide. The state has signed agreements with the York County Community Action Program and Coastal Enterprises Inc.

Funding for the program comes from an assessment on lenders at foreclosure auctions. The effort to assist homeowners was the result of legislation that took effect in September. Those interested may call the Bureau’s Foreclosure Prevention Hotline at 1-888-664-2569 for free advice and assistance or visit the bureau’s website at www.maine.gov/pfr/consumercredit/foreclosure_resources.html for more information.Hearings on supplemental budget scheduledBeginning Jan. 7 and continuing through Thurs., Jan. 14, the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs is holding hearings on Gov. Baldacci’s supplemental budget proposal. Other committees of jurisdiction will be holding joint hearings with the Appropriations Committee as needed.

For a full schedule, visit the Appropriations Committee website at www.maine.gov/legis/ofpr/appropriations_committee/schedule_agendas/ and click “January 7-14, 2010” at the top of the page.Economic newsRecently released data shows that state revenues were better than anticipated for both the General Fund and Highway Fund. For the General Fund, revenue was $2.3 million above projections in November, but was 7.6 percent lower in the first five months of Fiscal Year 2010 than in the same period in FY 2009. The Highway Fund met projections in November, though it was still 2.4 percent lower in the first five months of FY 2010 than FY 2009.

Remember – the audio of all committee hearings and work sessions as well as House and Senate sessions are available online at www.maine.gov/legis.

State Rep. Jonathan McKane represents Edgecomb, Newcastle, Damariscotta, Bristol, South Bristol, and Monhegan Plantation, and encourages constituents to send thoughts, ideas, questions and opinions. Contact him for more information on this or any other issue at 563-5427 or by email at Jon@JonMcKane.com.