How many people in this Role?
151 House Members
Who can run for this Role?
This Role is not elected or appointed. All participants who are not elected or appointed to other roles will become Representatives. All Lobbyists become Representatives on Saturday.
Main Role and Responsibilities
A House Member serves as a Representative during the Youth and Government Weekend. The Role mirrors Maine’s House of Representatives, with participants representing a district, working in Committees, debating legislation and voting on Bills. Only Representatives are permitted to speak on the House Floor (with rare exceptions).
Responsibilities include:
- Write, sponsor, and debate Bills.
- Serve on a legislative Committee.
- Research and understand issues Bills are proposing to address.
- Participate in public hearings and committee work sessions where Bills are discussed and amended.
- Debate Bills on the House floor; share arguments for, or against, legislation.
- Vote on Bills during House sessions.
- Speak on at least one issue during Youth and Government Weekend to practice public speaking and advocacy.
- Act as a representative of a Maine district, bringing their viewpoint to the legislative process.
What skills are important for this Role?
- Willingness to learn about Maine’s issues
- Curiosity about the legislative process
- Desire to sharpen public speaking skills
- Interest in building leadership and communication skills
- Good listening skills
- Ability to remain calm when debating opposing views
Does this Role attend the Leadership Training beginning on Thursday?
No. Only House Committee Chairs and Lobbyists will attend.
Election/Selection Procedure
You do not have to be elected for this position. Everyone who participates in at least one online Caucus, and has not been elected or appointed to another Role, will attend the Youth and Government Weekend in Augusta as a member of the House of Representatives.
