About this role
Pine Tree Legal Assistance (PTLA), Maine's largest statewide legal aid program, invites applications from Maine Law students to serve as a pro bono Policy Development Assistant working with PTLA staff during the first regular session of the 133rd Maine Legislature to provide bill tracking, research, and other assistance regarding legislation related to PTLA's work and the communities we serve. While PTLA’s funding limits lobbying on pending legislation, PTLA staff is permitted to (and regularly does) provide testimony and information in response to specific requests from Maine legislators to assist the Legislature’s consideration of specific bills addressing housing, family, protection from abuse, consumer rights, and other topics.
The project will start in early January and continue through the end of April (the specific start and end dates are negotiable), during which the assistant would be expected to devote between 5-10 hours per week. Responsibilities include: reviewing and categorizing bills; developing and updating a bill tracker; monitoring bills and alerting PTLA staff to upcoming hearings and other developments; observing and summarizing public hearings; reviewing and summarizing written testimony; assisting PTLA staff responding to requests for information from legislators; researching policy developments in other states; and participating in Access to Justice Day in February at the State House. Excellent organization and communication skills are essential, and an interest in public interest law and policy advocacy are preferred.
The work can be done remotely or in-person (PTLA has offices at 88 Federal Street in Portland and 39 Green Street in Augusta), with some visits to the State House in Augusta for hearings and events.
Applications are welcome from 1Ls, 2Ls, or 3Ls. The deadline to apply is November 13, 2026.