Whereas, the State acknowledges the need to focus significant resources in eastern Maine for economic development; and

Whereas, efforts to increase the number of available quality jobs in the region have begun to succeed, but other factors, such as worker preparedness, are limiting workforce development in Penobscot, Hancock and Washington counties; and

Whereas, efforts are underway in the area of worker education and training, yet certain other issues such as health and social issues have not been similarly addressed; and

Whereas, illegal drug use in this region is a significant component of health and social issues and the need to reduce the prevalence of those drugs in the region is urgent; and

Whereas, this resolve establishes the Commission to Promote Workforce Development in Eastern Maine, which must be initiated before the 90-day period expires in order that the commission can begin its work in a timely manner and its report can be submitted in time for submission to the Second Regular Session of the 120th Legislature; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

PART A

Sec. A-1. Commission to Promote Workforce Development in Eastern Maine established. Resolved: That the Commission to Promote Workforce Development in Eastern Maine, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. A-2. Commission membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of the following 16 members:

1. The Director of the Office of Substance Abuse, or the director's designee;