A public hearing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday on a citizen initiative that would make it easier to temporarily remove access to firearms from people who are in a crisis.
Maine Legislature
Bill to amend medically assisted suicide law draws emotional debate from Maine lawmakers
The proposal to allow doctors to waive the waiting period for terminally ill patients to receive life-ending medication was rejected by 1 vote in the Senate after getting initial approval in the House last week.
Group hoping to ‘veto’ Maine budget intends to collect signatures at polling places Tuesday
It’s unclear whether a group of Republicans can gather enough signatures to force a people’s veto referendum, which Democrats warn would cause a months-long government shutdown even if it fails.
Standoff over red flag hearing continues in Maine Legislature, may go to court
A state law passed in 2019 requires public hearings for citizen initiatives, though a hearing was never held on a 2021 proposal later approved in a referendum.
Care workers gather at Maine State House to join call for wage increases
Advocates say the state needs to support raises for direct care workers so nursing homes, group homes and other agencies can compete for staff with fast food restaurants and retailers.
Proposed tax increases spark clash in Maine Legislature
Advocates urged lawmakers to increase taxes on the wealthy and corporations, but Republicans vowed to oppose any new taxes.
Maine hotels may be forced to stop using those small plastic bottles of shampoo
A bill winning support in the Legislature would prohibit hotels, motels and other guest lodging from using single-use plastic containers of less than 6 oz. for health and beauty products.
Maine Republicans, gun rights groups try to force hearing on ‘red flag’ proposal
Republicans say Democrats, who control both chambers and legislative committees, are violating state law by not allowing a public hearing on a red flag referendum that is opposed by Gov. Janet Mills and some Democrats.
Laurel Libby seeks reinstatement of her right to speak on House floor
The Republican from Auburn had her voting rights temporarily restored by the U.S. Supreme Court last month, but she still can’t speak during floor debates while her suit against Speaker Ryan Fecteau over her censure proceeds.
Bill to support later high school start times passes in House, Senate
The measure, which originally mandated a statewide 8:30 a.m. or later high school start time, was amended to create funding for districts to pilot a later start time.