Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center researcher Gianna DeJoy, PhD, MSSW, is a co-author of a new policy brief examining strategies to maintain and improve access to obstetric care across Maine. Maintaining and Improving Obstetric Access in Maine, an October 2026 policy brief from the Maine Reproductive Health Research Coalition, highlights the closure of nine hospital […]
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Research from the University of Maine’s Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center is receiving widespread media attention following the release of findings from a multiyear project examining staffing challenges, call volumes, training access, and the sustainability of fire and emergency medical services (EMS) across Maine. Led in collaboration with the Maine Office of the State Fire […]
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As Maine’s population ages, rural communities are developing local solutions to help older residents access essential services, maintain independence, and stay connected. A recent study published in Maine Policy Review examines how community-based networks can address challenges facing rural older adults, including barriers to health care, housing, transportation, and social connection. The Maine Community Connectors […]
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The Margaret Chase Smith Library proudly sponsors an annual essay contest for high school seniors. This year, the MCSL challenged students to address what governmental service or program is essential and needs to be protected. Oran Saar of John Bapst Memorial High School was awarded first place. His essay, “The Importance of National Parks“, has […]
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Dr. Rebecca Bian, an assistant professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering affiliated with the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center, has earned several notable recognitions and advanced transportation research through recent presentations, publications, and professional honors. The Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center congratulates Dr. Bian on these accomplishments and on her continued contributions to transportation research […]
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Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center Director Jonathan Rubin was recently interviewed by News Center Maine on the upcoming high heating oil prices coming to Maine. The real issue is refining capacity. Refining capacity in the United States is at all-time highs. There really is not any more capacity to refine significantly more quantities of oil, […]
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Happy Labor Day! Today we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and achievements of workers everywhere! Whether you’re grilling with family, enjoying a well-deserved break, or reflecting on your journey, let’s honor our collective efforts. In the spirit of the day, enjoy a Maine Policy Matters episode during your downtime about Maine’s working waterfront!
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Dr. Marcella Sorg recently presented at the 2026 Governor’s 8th Annual Opioid Response Summit, an annual summary of data reviewing 2025 and 2026 drug overdose trends, including overdose responses and reversals by members of the law enforcement community. Research Associate Dominic Piacentini was on the ‘Aging and Addiction: Bringing Older Adults into the SUD Conversation’ panel. The […]
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In an interview featured in WABI TV5’s coverage, Dr. Marcella “Marci” Sorg, a research professor at the University of Maine’s Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center, provided expert insight into the factors driving regional drug overdose statistics. As director of the Rural Drug and Alcohol Research Program and lead author of Maine’s monthly overdose reports, Dr. […]
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August 14th is National Financial Awareness Day, an annual reminder of the importance of personal financial health and money management. While taking control of your finances starts with individual action, long-term stability relies heavily on having access to clear, accessible financial education early on. In a commentary for Maine Policy Review, David M. Leach addresses […]
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