Policy Advocacy

Creating systems-level change through state and federal policy advocacy

Advocating for Systemic Change

CEI’s policy work seeks to transform our experiences with individuals, businesses and communities into wider change that moves us toward a more equitable, just and environmentally sustainable economy.

Our team advocates within coalitions, often weighing in on and supporting bills that others propose; and sometimes engaging with partners and legislators to develop a bill that we will lead on. We prioritize issues and sectors where our lending experience and business expertise add value.

CURRENT ADVOCATING FOR

Support Investment in Maine’s Food System!

LD 1140, An Act to Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue to Strengthen the Resilience and Growth of Maine’s Agricultural Economy, provides a unique opportunity to ensure a sustained funding source for the state’s critical and iconic agriculture, food and forest products businesses, enabling them to innovate and grow.

Learn More About LD 1140

Support Maine’s Child Care Businesses

LD1955, will support Maine families and child care businesses by expanding the Child Care Affordability Program, reducing the program waitlist and supporting a tiered compensation system.

Learn More About LD 1955

Help Maine’s Farmed Scallop Industry Grow

LD1279, will support the growth of Maine’s farmed scallop industry by funding a two-year pilot program to support biotoxin testing protocols for high-risk aquaculture species, beginning with farmed scallops.

Learn More About LD 1279

Our policy advocacy is rooted in the day-to day work we do with small businesses owners, workers and homeowners.

We leverage our strong relationships in the community and sectoral expertise to advocate for positive change and investment in child care, our local food system, climate adaptation and increased financial stability for individuals with low-incomes.

We work to create broad bipartisan support for new initiatives in addition to ongoing efforts to expand equity in existing economic opportunity and community development programs.

We encourage our advising clients, investees and borrowers to engage in direct advocacy and offer resources to help navigate the legislative and administrative policy process.

POLICY PRIORITIES

Affordable Housing

Broadband Infrastructure Development

Child Care

Rural Communities in Economic Transition

Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation

Racial Equity, Tribal Sovereignty & Immigrant Rights

Renewable Energy

Sustainable Food Systems

Workforce Inclusion

OUR ADVOCACY APPROACH ALIGNS WITH

Maine State Climate Action Plan and Economic Development Strategy

View Plan

Maine’s economic development strategy

View Plan

Racial equality work led by Maine’s Permanent Commission

on the Status of Racial, Indigenous and Maine Tribal Populations

View Plan

Learn how engaging with local, State and Federal Government can benefit your small business.

LEARN MORE

Testimonies

National Advocacy

August 5, 2022

Comments On The “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) on Reforming the Community Reinvestment Act Regulatory Framework.”

CEI strongly supports the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), which has been the driver of much-needed investment to communities with low to medium incomes over the past 40+ years. While the…

Maine State Advocacy

130th Maine State Legislature

FEBRUARY 15, 2022

LD 1626 TESTIMONY

Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary in support of LD 1626, An Act Implementing the Recommendations of the Task Force on Changes to the Maine Indian Claims Settlement…

MARCH 15, 2022

LD 2013 TESTIMONY

Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in support of LD 2013, An Act Relating to Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Contamination in the State

MARCH 7, 2022

FY22 SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL FUND BUDGET TESTIMONY

Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs in support of FY22 Supplemental General Fund Budget Providing Funding to Accommodate the Increased Costs Associated with Staff Support…

MARCH 7, 2022

LD 2003 TESTIMONY

Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing in support of LD 2003, An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Commission To Increase Housing Opportunities in Maine…

MARCH 1, 2022

LD 856 TESTIMONY

Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in support of LD 856, An Act to Balance Renewable Energy Development with Natural and Working Lands Conservation