It’s been a pleasure to work with Rep. Catherine Nadeau, D-Winslow, in the 126th Legislature. She has shown tireless dedication over the past two years to support forest rangers’ safety and to work across the aisle on issues important to our state.

Rep. Nadeau fought hard on a bill to allow Maine’s forest rangers to receive firearms training and carry firearms on the job. The measure would have given members of the Maine Forest Service the peace of mind of knowing that they could protect themselves in the line of duty from danger posed by arsonists, drug dealers and other violent criminals, but they also must be prepared to face bears, coyotes and other possibly rabid animals.

During the session, the Legislature approved the bill, but Gov. Paul LePage vetoed it. The House voted to override the governor’s veto, but the bill died when the Senate tally fell two votes short.

While Democrats and Republicans don’t always agree, Rep. Nadeau has been a standout in the Legislature for her efforts to find compromise on important issues. She sponsored a bill to expand eligibility of the Educational Opportunity Tax Credit to Maine to more Mainers, which garnered bipartisan support. She also worked with colleagues across the aisle to combat milfoil and other invasive species in Maine’s valuable lakes — a big economic driver for central Maine.

Rep. Nadeau has been a strong voice for the people of Winslow and is dedicated to serving the people of Maine. It’s been an honor to work with her.

Rep. Jeff McCabe, Skowhegan

Assistant House Majority Leader