House advances one‑year bridge funding for anti‑trafficking services amid debate over fairness

The Maine House on March 17 advanced a measure to provide short‑term state funding to Preble Street’s anti‑trafficking services to cover an unexpected federal funding delay that supporters said has left survivors on a wait list.

Representative Myers (floor proponent) said the funding gap results from a delayed notice of funding opportunities from the U.S. Department of Justice and that survivors need services now. “This provider has begun wait listing survivors,” Myers said, arguing a one‑year bridge would allow continued case management and wraparound services while federal grants are processed.

Opponents questioned why a single organization would receive the state funds and whether Preble Street had already received federal payments. “If somebody wants to come up with a floor amendment that gives money to all the different organizations, that’s more palatable,” one member said, calling the allocation unfair if targeted to one provider.

State legislators referenced written responses from Preble Street’s advocacy director confirming that the OVC released a notice of funding opportunity on 12/30/2025 and that funding distributions could be delayed into 2026, which supporters said could leave a service gap for survivors.

After debate and roll‑call requests, the House accepted the majority 'ought to pass as amended' report and the clerk announced the recorded tally in favor (approximately 81‑61 as announced in the transcript). The measure was advanced and will be sent to the Senate for concurrence.