Bangor, Maine News Update: March 15, 2019

Bangor Police are once again asking for the public’s help locating a man who’s been missing since September. Thomas Lynch was last seen near the Bangor Walmart on Stillwater Avenue where he ran into the woods, fleeing from police officers. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact Bangor Police.

Governor Janet Mills wants to expand access to abortions by allowing nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and certified nurse-midwives to perform them. She says current restrictions lack medical justification and  greatly limit the number of health centers who can provide the service.

The University of Maine system is facing a 3 million dollar budget shortfall, despite a tuition increase and an increase in state funding. The Portland Press Herald reports staff is recommending the system dip into campus reserves at campuses in Augusta, Machias, and Portland, as well as using system reserves to make up the difference. Despite that, the system’s chief financial officer says he’s seeing a lot of positive signs in the budget.

Coastal Health Center in Ellsworth is offering free vascular screenings to anyone suffering from painful varicose veins, leg swelling, venous leg ulcers, chronic leg fatigue, heaviness, or discomfort. The screenings are being held on the 4^th Tuesday of every month at the center on Commerce Park. Find more information at on the center's website.

A group that provides workers compensation insurance is accepting applications for scholarships to children and spouses of workers who have been seriously injured on the job. Company officials say, while workers comp can help make up for lost wages, it doesn’t take away all the stress an injury can have on a family. Find more information on MEMIC's website.