Name: Nancy E. Smith

Age: 46

Political Party: Democrat

Residence: Monmouth

Employment: farmer with Snafu Acres Dairy Farm; forester with Two Trees Forestry; state legislator for House District 80

Education: degrees from University of New Hampshire and University of Maine

Political Experience: Serving third term in state Legislature; Monmouth comprehensive plan and ordinance review committees

What can you, as a state legislator, do to help people struggling this year with the high cost of gas and oil?

I will work for appropriate funding for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and MaineHousing weatherization programs. I will work with community groups that have evolved as well: Neighbors Helping Neighbors in Monmouth, and Litchfield Energy Savers Society (L.E.S.S.). Teague Morris and Pastor Jackie Brannen are doing tremendous work to energize local efforts.

How would you handle the biggest issues facing the towns in your district?

I will continue work with the administration and legislature as consolidation of school administration comes into effect. This effort has worked well in Monmouth, yet Wales and Litchfield continue to be frustrated. In this, like all issues, I am the connection between my constituents and government agencies.

Do you have any plans that would result in more jobs for Maine?

As house chair of the committee on Business, Research, and Economic Development, I will continue to advocate for business assistance programs that work, for a fair tax structure, and a predictable and reasonable regulatory system.

What do you think of the beverage-tax repeal on the November ballot?

Taxing soda and other "non-food" beverages is an appropriate way to pay for Maine's health care program, Dirigo Health. I have been very disappointed to see that the repeal effort has been rich with misinformation. The repeal may put DirigoChoice at great risk, along with the thousands of families who use this health insurance.

Would you support legislation to change the income tax or sales tax?

I will continue to support all efforts for comprehensive tax reform. This includes broadening the sales tax to reduce income taxes and eliminate the inheritance tax. We were very close to creating a more fair tax system last term.

What's the biggest social issue facing the state in the next two years?

The most critical decisions we make will relate to the funding of social service programs. Budget cuts are coming, and we need to implement them minimizing risks to all Mainers. We must end domestic violence. All other efforts are meaningless to someone who is not safe at home.