LD 489 Language: The people of the State have the right to a clean and healthy environment and to the preservation of the natural, cultural and healthful qualities of the environment. The State may not infringe upon these rights. The State shall conserve, protect and maintain the State’s natural resources, including, but not limited to, its air, water, land and ecosystems for the benefit of all the people, including generations yet to come.

Dear Representatives of the Maine State Legislature,

As realtors, title companies, and surveyors in Maine’s vibrant and successful real estate businesses, we urge you to support the Pine Tree Amendment. Passage of this amendment is important for the long-term health of our industry, and for the future of the Maine that we love and that supports our industry.

We are in the business of supporting the Maine economy through the sale of land, homes, and commercial properties. The success of our industry relies largely on Maine’s reputation as a great place to live and to visit. That critical reputation relies on the natural beauty and healthy environment that Maine offers its citizens and its visitors. The Pine Tree Amendment provides a remarkable opportunity to strengthen those qualities at all levels of state government.

The Covid-19 pandemic has provided a stark reminder that Maine has the natural and cultural qualities that draw the world to us. The dramatic increase in real estate sales and real estate values since the pandemic began in early 2020 has been fueled by intense interest from people beyond our borders who were eager to move here and begin a life closer to the clean and healthy environment Maine offers. These transactions bolster Maine’s economy and they will continue to do so.  The Pine Tree Amendment provides excellent potential to help sustain that interest going forward.

All people in Maine should have the right to a clean and healthy environment. That right will be good for our citizens and visitors.  It is important for Maine businesses today and in the future.

Please support the Pine Tree Amendment.

Sincerely,