(Bangor)  The attempted mediation between Northern Light Health and Anthem failed to bring about an agreement yesterday.  However, NewsCenter Maine reports the two late yesterday did agree to extend their existing contract by 30 days, after first saying no extension would be forthcoming.  The contract affects some 30K Mainers who were briefly out of network for primary care October 1st. Both parties continue to claim the other is uncooperative or unwilling to negotiate.  A Northern Light spokesperson said Wednesday the two would continue negotiations, but confirmed NLH physicians and medical providers are no longer in network for Anthem.

(Washington)  Speaking of healthcare, Wednesday’s government shutdown largely comes down to just that, with the Associated Press reporting Democratic lawmakers insist any deal must address their demands, while Republicans dig in and say negotiations can happen only after the government is funded.  At issue are tax credits that have made health insurance more affordable for millions since the Covid-19 pandemic.  The subsidies go to low- and middle- income people who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act.  Those subsidies are slated to expire at the end of the year unless Congress extends them.  Their expiration would more than double what subsidized enrollees currently pay for premiums next year, according to KFF, a nonprofit that researches healthcare issues.

(Augusta)  Following Tuesday night’s impasse, the federal government’s shut down was the first since 2018.  The shutdown could impact the more than 10K federal employees who work in Maine, not including postal workers.  NewsCenter Maine reports the Maine Department of Labor has released new guidance for such employees.  While it’s unclear how many will qualify for unemployment benefits during the shutdown, Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman said Wednesday the Department was there for support.  Initial claims must be started with a phone call to the Department, with claims typically taking between 10 and 14 days to process.  Initial monetary determinations will show zero dollars eligibility, but Fortman clarified that will be updated once wage information is received.  

(ANP)  Despite the shutdown, Acadia National Park yesterday remained largely open to visitors.  The Bangor Daily News reports the Hulls Cove Visitor Center was closed, but the Island Explorer bus system, operated by a nonprofit organization, was doing pick ups and drop offs as usual.  The Park Loop Road was open, as was the new Acadia Gateway Center in Trenton, which is owned and operated by the state.  However, the BDN reports no park staff was seen  on site there.  Rangers were also manning a booth at the foot of the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road, ensuring visitors had required reservations before driving to the top.  One ranger said it could become a public safety issue if vehicles flooded the road and parking lots at the top.  

(Ellsworth)  Want to get out of jury duty?  You’re likely out of luck if you live in Maine.  The Ellsworth American reports jury selection began Monday at the Hancock County Courthouse, and if you’re called to serve, just be prepared.  A spokesperson for the Maine Judicial Branch noted that before 2017,there was a list of exemptions, including the governor, judges, physicians, dentists, attorneys, veterinarians, CNP’s, county sheriff’s and active duty military.  Now, only the Governor and active military are exempt, largely because of the Sixth Amendment, which states defendants have a right to a trial by jury of fellow residents.  There’s not even an exemption for religious reasons, including Yom Kippur, the Jewish holiday that began Wednesday.  Maine statute does make some allowances – but it’s up to a judge to decide whether or not you serve.