AUGUSTA – Today, Gov. Janet T. Mills announced that out of caution she would quarantine after a possible exposure to COVID-19. The governor was slated to swear-in members of the 130th Maine Legislature tomorrow at the Augusta Civic Center. Maine lawmakers will now be sworn in by Hon. Andrew M. Mead, Acting Chief Justice of the Maine Supreme Court.
Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, and incoming Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford, released the following statements.
President Jackson:“In Maine, we know that we need to take this virus seriously in order to keep our people safe and get our economy back up to speed. Throughout this pandemic, Governor Mills has acted quickly and decisively, and her steadfast leadership has put us in a better position than most. Once again, the governor is leading by example by quarantining after a possible exposure to COVID-19 and putting the health, safety and well-being of Mainers first.
“At this point in the pandemic, we’ve figured out how to work remotely to get things done. We will miss the governor at tomorrow’s swearing-in day ceremony but we will continue working with her remotely, as we’ve done throughout this pandemic.”
Incoming Speaker Fecteau:“Governor Mills is doing what she has asked of all Mainers throughout this pandemic – following the best public health guidance available. We know that no one is immune to COVID-19 and that everyone doing their part helps keep more Mainers safe and healthy. While I’m disappointed she won’t be joining us for the opening session of the 130th Legislature tomorrow, I’m beyond grateful for Governor Mills commitment to handling this pandemic with the seriousness necessary to mitigate damage and save lives.”
Incoming members of the 130th Maine Senate will be sworn in at the Augusta Civic Center at 9:30. The Senate proceedings can be streamed here. Incoming members of the 130th House of Representatives will be sworn in at 10:30. The House proceedings can be streamed here.###
