Senate approves state nonprofit security grant amid debate over oversight and cost
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Summary
The Maine Senate approved (committee 'ought to pass' report) LD 2107, a $1.5 million proposal to create a state nonprofit security grant program; supporters said federal funds are insufficient, while opponents warned of duplication, weak guardrails and long-term fiscal risk.
The Maine Senate on March 24 approved a committee report advancing LD 2107, a bill to establish a state nonprofit security grant program funded at $1,500,000, after floor debate over whether the state should create a parallel program to federal grants.
Senator Ryan Hagen (Penobscot) urged rejection of the measure, saying the proposal “creates a new grant program funded by taxpayers without sufficient guardrails” and risks duplication of federal programs administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Hagen warned the bill leaves “significant discretion” to the administering agency and could become an enduring expense, and he urged colleagues to “vote no” unless clearer accountability mechanisms are added.
Senator Maria Carney (Cumberland) replied in support, saying a state supplement is needed because federal funding has declined and “the focus of the federal funding is different” — chiefly site hardening — while Maine needs flexibility to cover event security for parades, fairs, and other local gatherings. Carney said the bill calls for the Maine Emergency Management Agency to develop guidelines and run a public rule‑making process to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Senate recorded a roll call on the committee report as amended; the clerk announced a tally of 21 senators in favor and 14 opposed on the motion accepting the majority 'ought to pass' report. The chamber then moved the measure forward consistent with that report.
Supporters said testimony at the public hearing documented increased threats to religious and cultural organizations and that a targeted program could fill gaps. Opponents said the state should first consider whether nonprofits can be helped to access federal funds rather than creating a separate grant program.
Next steps: the committee-amended report was accepted on the floor and the bill will proceed consistent with the adopted committee recommendations; further rule‑making and implementation details are to be developed by the Maine Emergency Management Agency if the bill becomes law.