Editor,
While the Maine Legislature is just beginning to wrap up its session, some of our most significant accomplishments to date have been first-in-the-nation laws aimed at protecting consumers. This is an area where Maine has always excelled, because our priority is putting people first.
Building on the success of two laws passed last session, I co-sponsored legislation that would require credit reporting agencies to clean and restore the credit records of Maine people who have been victims of identity theft. Another new law also will help protect the financial security of Maine families, by requiring that merchants notify customers using debit and credit cards if a hold is placed on money in the account before a purchase.
We’ve also strengthened privacy rights, by passing a landmark law that prohibits the sale of cell phone records and personal data. This will close a dangerous federal loophole, since landline phones are already protected.
Yet another initiative would protect Maine families from price gouging in the event of a natural disaster, putting a 15 percent ceiling on increases in prices for necessary items during a crisis.
The success and safety of families in Windham and Gray is my first priority in Augusta. If I can be of service on any state issue, please feel free to call me at 892-6591, or e-mail me at RepMarkBryant@yahoo.com.
Rep. Mark Bryant
Windham, Gray
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