Maine council considers bill inspired by the late Peter Falk

AUGUSTA, Maine – Maine lawmakers are considering a bill inspired by the late actor Peter Falk of the hit TV series “Columbo.”

The bill was crafted by Falk’s daughter, and it protects family members’ rights to visit ailing or incapacitated loved ones. Catherine Falk became an advocate for family members’ rights after taking legal action to see her father at the end of his life. Peter Falk died in 2011.

Catherine Falk says in an interview that lawmakers in more than 20 states, including Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, are considering similar bills.

She says the legislation honours her father and protects people who are isolated from family members.

On Thursday, Democratic Rep. Arthur Verow will present the bill to the 10-member Legislative Council, which will decide if it should advance.