AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills signed into law LD 2029, An Act to Make March Maine Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, on Tuesday, Feb. 25, and issued the first proclamation to raise awareness of childhood cancer immediately after signing the bill. 

The legislation, sponsored by Senator Lisa Keim (R-Oxford), establishes March of each year as Maine Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and requires the Governor to issue a proclamation inviting and urging the Maine people to observe the month. It passed the Legislature unanimously.

“Cancer is an insidious and heartbreaking disease, especially when it touches the lives of children,” said Governor Janet Mills in a news release. “It is my hope that this designation will shine a light on its devastating impacts and demonstrate to Maine families that we stand with them in this fight. I thank Senator Keim and the dedicated families whose lives have been touched by this awful disease for their leadership in making today possible.”

“This new law we officially enact today is the result of the courageous dedication of a group of wonderful people who have been touched by childhood cancer,” said Senator Lisa Keim in a news release. “Recognizing the devastating impact of this disease on Maine families will benefit their work, and the work of all of those who seek to put an end to childhood cancer. By this act we hope to further their efforts and gratefully acknowledge their dedication.”