Well, we are at the end of the first regular session of the 126th Maine Legislature.

My opinion it has been a rough session with a lot of contention in both parties especially in leadership circles. From the Chief Executive’s and through leadership of the House and Senate, issues have been hotly contested. The big topics this session were the budget, paying of the hospitals and expansion of MaineCare.

I have supported the work of the bipartisan report of the Appropriations Committee on the budget feeling that under the time involved it was a reasonable compromise, not as much cutting in state government as I would like but a start.

The hospital payment process was widely supported by both bodies then signed by the Governor. I voted for MaineCare expansion. However I will admit many reservations as the federal program does not appear to have proper funding and some states are already struggling with the process. I did vote for it as the bill did have a sunset provision of three years then the legislature would have to relook at the issue. During that period the feds have promised 100-percent funding although there would be some heavy administrative costs passed on to the state. Tough choice for sure.

My committee, Criminal Justice and Public Safety, reviewed many bills on gun control all of which I opposed. All the proposed legislation did was penalize law-abiding citizens in reference to firearms. Criminals do not obey laws so why add burdens to those of us who obey the law and act responsibly with our firearms.

Rep. Tom Tyler, R-Windham, represents parts of Windham and Gray in the Maine House of Representatives.