The supplemental budget will also help the state fight the opioid crisis and fund the state’s upcoming 2020 bicentennial.
Politics
Political news and information from the Sun Journal.
Mills brings back bill that would expand access to abortion
The legislation would make Maine the 9th state to authorize health care practitioners other than physicians to perform procedures, removing a barrier to reproductive health services in rural areas.
Climate bills call for Maine to reduce emissions to 80% below 1990 levels
Seven hours of testimony provide a glimpse into the scope and impact of proposals to rein in greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, factories and motor vehicles.
Sen. Collins sponsors bill to extend LGBT protections
She is the lead Republican sponsor of the bill in the Senate.
Panel rejects bill that would require all police in Maine to wear body cameras
The Legislature’s Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee voted unanimously against the measure, which many police officials opposed.
Hundreds pack hearing on bill to end most exemptions for kids’ vaccinations
The measure would eliminate nonmedical exemptions to vaccinations for measles and other infectious diseases that are required before children enter school.
Lawmakers aim to balance safety, Amish beliefs with buggy bill
The growing number of Amish communities in central and northern Maine has increased concerns about car-buggy collisions, prompting the proposal for mandatory reflectors or lights.
Senate Democrats roll out plan to give Mainers relief from high prescription prices
Party leaders will submit a handful of bills, including one to set up a state commission with oversight authority on drug pricing and another to allow bulk importation from Canada.
Angus King undergoes final radiation treatment for prostate cancer
The 74-year-old senator said he has ‘dodged cancer three times now’ – including this residual recurrence of prostate cancer – thanks to health insurance and access to care.
Vulnerable Mainers pin hopes on bill to tighten vaccination standards
Banning all non-medical exemptions to vaccinations for measles, pertussis and other infectious diseases would improve protection for Mainers – especially those with compromised immune systems.