In Memoriam: Maine Labor Advocate Howard Reben

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of longtime labor advocate Howard Reben who passed away on August 1 after a period of declining health. After moving to Maine in 1970, Howard worked as an advocate for low-income Mainers and those seeking equality and fair working conditions.

According to his obituary, Howard first served as an attorney for Pine Tree Legal Assistance. Through this work, Howard discovered an appalling lack of consumer protections in Maine as well as a general lack of consumer awareness. With a shoestring budget Howard launched “COMBAT,” a consumer advocacy organization that became a formidable presence in the state, advocating for ratepayers against electricity rate hikes, lobbying the Legislature to reform banking laws and successfully suing in courts to end debtors’ prison.

During his distinguished career, Howard was the attorney for the Maine Teachers Association and its affiliated units, Teamsters Local 340, and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal employees. He appeared many times before the Maine Supreme Judicial Court and Maine federal courts on their behalf. Howard also advocated for gender equality. In 1975, on behalf of the Maine Civil Liberties Union, he convinced the Maine Supreme Judicial Court of a woman’s right to retain her own surname after marriage.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, www.mainefuneral.com