My colleague and friend, Rep. Jay McCreight, deserves praise for an excellent first session in the Maine Legislature. Her service to the people of Harpswell, Brunswick and West Bath has earned her a reputation as a trustworthy leader who takes a conscientious and thorough approach to her work.

Rep. McCreight served on two committees — Judiciary and Marine Resources — and she finished the session with perfect attendance.

Rep. McCreight also played a key role in expanding women’s access to affordable health care. Her signature piece of legislation, LD 319, will help thousands of low-income women in Maine gain access to cancer screenings, reproductive health care and family planning services. The end result will be that more women will be in a stronger economic position, and more Maine families will thrive.

While Rep. McCreight knew her bill would be tough to pass in a divided government, she believed it was still important to make the effort. Thankfully, her steady work ethic and her skill at building relationships across the aisle ensured the bill made it through the Republican- controlled Senate and eventually became law.

Rep. McCreight’s optimism and no-quit attitude got results for people who were counting on her. I’m honored to work with someone so committed to helping others succeed.

Rep. Sara Gideon,

Assistant House Majority

Leader,

Freeport