Many key bills, including the supplemental budget, remain on the table. But lawmakers don’t appear poised to call for a special session to give themselves more time.
Politics
Political news and information from the Sun Journal.
Posted inLocal & State, Maine Crime, Politics
Sagadahoc sheriff candidates don’t want Lewiston mass shooting to define them
Amid biting criticism for the department’s failings before the tragedy on Oct. 25, incumbent Sheriff Joel Merry and Sgt. Aaron Skolfield forge ahead.
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Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Democratic legislative leaders reach agreement on supplemental budget fixes
The fixes would restore pension tax breaks for retirees, boost pay for ed techs and increase support for dairy farmers, Senate President Troy Jackson said.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine Senate narrowly supports expanded background checks, 72-hour waiting period
The Senate took up 5 bills that would put stricter gun laws in place and passed 4 of them.
Posted inNation / World, Politics
Trump gives support to embattled Speaker Mike Johnson at pivotal Mar-a-Lago meet
Donald Trump flashed some criticism over efforts to oust the speaker calling it ‘unfortunate,’ saying there are ‘much bigger problems’ right now.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Gov. Mills signs bill to ban unauthorized paramilitary activity
The law allows the attorney general’s office to file for a court injunction to stop the activity and penalize anyone breaking the law with a Class D crime, which is punishable by fines of $500 to $1,000 and up to a year in jail.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Senate moves to exempt sole store targeted by bill to ban tobacco sales near schools
A Senate version of a bill to ban tobacco sales within 300 feet of a school would allow existing, licensed stores to keep tobacco sales.
Posted inNation / World, News, Politics
U.S. House speaker negotiating with White House to advance Ukraine aid
Mike Johnson is set to travel to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club to meet with him and has been consulting him in recent weeks on the Ukraine funding to gain his support – or at least prevent him from openly opposing the package.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Bill to allow lawsuits against gun manufacturers narrowly advances to the Senate
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, cleared the House of Representatives last night by a 4-vote margin, with at least 6 Democrats joining Republicans in opposition.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine lawmakers endorse higher tax brackets for wealthier residents
Both the House and Senate this week passed a bill that lowers state income taxes for low- and middle-wage earners.