An Act to Designate November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Summary
LD 254 is a simple commemorative measure that designates the month of November each year as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in Maine. The bill also directs the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging residents to observe the month with appropriate activities.
The bill does not create a regulatory program, impose reporting requirements, or change eligibility for any benefits. Its primary purpose is symbolic and educational: to elevate public awareness of pancreatic cancer and encourage outreach, remembrance, and related awareness activities during November.
Impact
The bill amends Maine law by enacting a new section in Title 1, section 150-V, establishing an official state observance for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. Its legal effect is limited to the annual designation and gubernatorial proclamation, and it does not alter substantive rights, duties, or funding obligations for state agencies, health providers, or private parties.
Sentiment
The available record suggests the bill was noncontroversial and broadly favorable. There are no committee transcripts or recorded votes indicating opposition, and the measure was enacted into law. Bills of this type are typically supported as public-awareness resolutions, especially when tied to a serious disease with significant public health impact.
Contention
No specific points of contention are reflected in the available materials. Because the bill is a ceremonial awareness designation rather than a policy or spending measure, there is no evidence of disagreement over implementation, cost, or legal consequences. Any discussion would likely have centered on the value of awareness campaigns rather than on substantive policy disputes.