Nangle to introduce bill to keep Maine veterans housed

AUGUSTA – When the 132nd Maine Legislature reconvenes in January, State Senator Tim Nangle, D-Windham, will introduce legislation to help Maine veterans stay in their homes and prevent homelessness.

State Senator Tim Nangle

Nangle proposed legislation, “An Act to Keep Maine Veterans Housed,” was approved for introduction in the 132md Maine Legislature’s Second Regular Session by a majority of the Legislative Council at its Oct. 23 meeting. All Democratic members of the Legislative Council voted in favor, while all Republican members opposed admitting the bill.

“Too many veterans who have served our country with honor are still struggling to find and keep stable housing,” said Senator Nangle. “At a time when federal programs are being cut or delayed across the country, it’s more important than ever to strengthen the local partnerships that are working. This bill will ensure Maine’s veterans can continue to count on the proven support that keeps them housed and connected to their communities.”

The legislation will support the Veterans Flex Fund – an already successful program led by Preble Street and the Maine Homeless Veterans Action Committee, which includes the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Volunteers of America, Vets Inc., Bread of Life Ministries and others.

The program provides small but critical assistance to help veterans overcome barriers to stable housing, such as covering unexpected rental costs, offering incentives to landlords and conducting outreach to connect veterans with safe, affordable homes.

New legislation in the Second Regular Session of the Maine Legislature must be approved for introduction by the Legislative Council, which is made up of the Democratic and Republican leaders in the Maine Senate and House of Representatives.

The Maine Legislature is set to reconvene for the Second Regular Session on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026. <