In 2011, he was temporarily appointed to the Joint Standing Committee on Labor, Commerce, Research and Economic Development (this was to fill an open position).
He also sponsored LD 1571, a comprehensive reform of Maine's Workers Compensation system which led to a directive from the Joint Committee on Labor, Commerce, Research & Economic Development (LCRED) to have the executive director empanel a working group to study and report back suggested changes based upon their discussions of the points proposed by the bill.
He also was the lead sponsor (in the 126th Legislature) on a bill to extend a trial program which allowed for the exemption from tax on aircraft parts which spurred a number of developments in aviation services in Maine.
He was appointed as senate chair and oversaw the work of a panel including representatives from the law enforcement, treatment and private sector.
Here is a link to their report https://www.maine.gov/legis/opla/OpioidTaskForce.htm In February, 2018, he announced that he would not be seeking re-election to the state senate in the fall elections, in order to devote more time to family and business matters.
[7] In the fall of 2018 he was appointed by Governor LePage to fill the remaining term of Penobscot County Commissioner Tom Davis who died in August 2018.
[6] He has been active with a variety of civic and community organizations over the years including: Bangor Jaycees, Bangor Rotary, Hampden Kiwanis, EMMC Children's Miracle Network Board – President, Phillips-Strickland House – Corporator, Eastern Maine Community College Foundation, Avalon Village, board of directors, Black Bear United Football Club, President, Hampden Business Association, Vice Chair, Citizens for Quality Education.