The Mills administration and state Legislature have established a working group to review and strengthen mental health and wellness resources for people working in Maine’s heritage industries, which include agriculture, fishing, forestry and logging.
The effort is being led by co-chairs Emily Horton, director of policy and community engagement for the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; Meredith Mendelson, deputy commissioner of the Department of Marine Resources; and Brie Masselli, associate director of Mental Health for the Department of Health and Human Services.
“People who work in Maine’s heritage industries face unique pressures and barriers to care,” said the group’s co-chairs. “This working group will take a close look at what resources exist today, where gaps remain, and what proven approaches could help ensure timely, practical and accessible support across the state.”
Additionally, the group will review sustainable funding mechanisms and service delivery models, and explore opportunities for public education to increase awareness of mental health services.
Some three in five workers workers in these sectors have identified a need for increased public education and access to culturally competent health services, according to a survey conducted by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
A report of findings and recommendations will be submitted to the relevant joint standing committees of the Legislature by Dec. 1 and those committees are expected to submit legislation for consideration in 2027.
Additional information about the working group and meeting notices can be found at the Maine Heritage Industries Working Group website.
