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Law Allows Ferry Transfer of Lab Samples for Island Residents

AUGUSTA, Maine — A new Maine law is about to take effect that requires the installation of locked boxes on state ferries to allow for transportation of medical samples.

The new law goes on the books on Friday. Supporters say it is designed to allow island residents to send samples to mainland hospitals and medical facilities without taking a time-consuming ferry ride.

Sen. Dave Miramant, a Camden Democrat, says Maine island residents have been inconvenienced by ferry rules that require them to spend hours dealing with routine health needs.

Gov. Paul LePage vetoed the bill after it passed, but the Legislature later overrode that veto.

Editors Note: This story has been corrected to indicate that Sen. Dave Miramant is a Democrat, not a Republican.