Bangor, Maine News Update: March 19, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 246 new cases of COVID-19 and two more people, diagnosed with the virus, who have died. Dr. Nirav Shah says health officials are discussing the possibility of, once again, accelerating the vaccination schedule, because they're seeing a lot of open appointment slots. The possibility is still in the discussion stage, but could mean people 50 and over may be able to get their vaccination before April 1st.

The Bangor School Department is reporting a case of COVID-19. As a result, Mary Snow School has moved to all-remote learning until Monday, March 29th. School nurses are notifying all staff and students who may have had contact with the affected person.

Governor Janet Mills signed the supplemental budget on Thursday, which covers spending through the end of June. The budget will allow unemployment benefits and relief payments from the Paycheck Protection Program to be exempt from state taxes. In addition $30 million will go to non-profit providers who serve Maine's senior population.

Flags in Maine are at half-staff, in memoriam of the victims of violence in Atlanta, Georgia. Governor Janet Mills expressed deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of that violence. Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on Monday, March 22nd.

Lawmakers are considering a proposal that would change the minimum voting age in Maine to 16. Several other states allow residents as young as 16 to register to vote, but none allow 16-year-olds to actually vote in an election.

'Keep Maine Open' is a new initiative, started by a group of business owners and healthcare professionals, aims to encourage people to continue wearing masks in public, despite the increased access to the COVID vaccine. The organization will use social media to spread the message, in at attempt to avoid another increase in cases of the virus.

A Mechanic Falls Police Officer and another man are being hailed as heroes after they worked together to rescue a Norway resident from a burning car. Officer Andre Chasse's dash cam captured the moment that they peeled the vehicle's windshield back and pulled the trapped driver to safety.