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HP 1490

Joint Resolution Recognizing February 2026 As 211 Maine Month

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Annie Graham and 5 co-sponsors

Maine officially recognizes February 2026 as "211 Maine Month" to promote awareness of the state's helpline connecting residents to health and human services resources.

READ and ADOPTED, in concurrence.
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Bill Summary · HP 1490

Legislative bill overview

HP 1490 is a joint resolution designating February 2026 as "211 Maine Month" in the state of Maine. The resolution recognizes and promotes awareness of Maine's 211 service, a helpline that connects residents to health and human services resources. This is a ceremonial measure with no direct fiscal or regulatory impact.

Why is this important

211 services provide critical information and referrals to vulnerable populations seeking assistance with housing, food, childcare, mental health, and other social services. Designating an official month raises public awareness of this free resource and encourages residents who may not know about the service to utilize it. The designation reflects legislative support for improving access to social safety net information during a time when many individuals face economic uncertainty.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive action: Critics may argue that designating a month is performative and does not allocate funding or resources to actually expand 211 services
  • Limited scope: The resolution only applies to February 2026 and does not establish ongoing recognition or sustained support mechanisms
  • Opportunity cost: Some may question whether legislative time spent on ceremonial resolutions could be directed toward substantive policy changes addressing root causes of poverty and service gaps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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