DHHS nominee unanimously endorsed by Committee

• By: Richard A. Erb
• On: 02/27/2019 14:56:49
• In: MHCA E-News for week of February 1, 2019

Jeanne Lambrew, nominated by Governor Mills to be the next Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner, sailed through her confirmation hearing at the legislature's Health and Human Services Committee on Thursday.  Although the bulk of her experience has been at the federal level in Washington, Ms. Lambrew grew up in Cape Elizabeth and still has family in Maine. 
 
Much discussion centered on issues regarding child protective services and ongoing challenges in the state psychiatric hospitals.  However, HHS Committee member Beth O'Connor (R-Berwick) did ask questions about supporting eldercare in Maine's long term care facilities.  Lambrew response, while not detailed, indicated that she is familiar with the demographic challenges in Maine and the workforce and wage pressures being faced by providers.
 
Because the bipartisan committee voted to unanimously support her nomination, full approval by the State Senate next week is effectively assured.
 
Staff Contact:
Rick Erb
President and CEO
rerb@mehca.org