Maine Legislature’s use of vague ‘concept bills’ has risen dramatically

Placeholder bills buy time to finalize details of legislation, but some significant and controversial proposals are only revealed at the last minute.

Maine lawmakers want federal waiver allowing asylum seekers to work right away

Current federal law requires that they wait 6 months after applying for asylum.

Group submits petitions for initiative to ban foreign spending on state referendums

Protect Maine Elections wants to put the referendum spending question on the November 2023 ballot.

Lawmakers eye ban on shutting off utilities for public safety buildings after June incident in Buckfield

A hearing Tuesday focused on a measure initiated to prevent future problems like one that popped up in Buckfield last June.

Maine senator calls for crackdown on ‘snake oil and fine print’ payday loans

State Sen. Rick Bennett of Oxford calls for limits on how much lenders can charge for short-term loans to hard-pressed Mainers.

Mills makes push for another $30 million for broadband internet in Maine

Weak or nonexistent internet connectivity, a longstanding problem in rural Maine, has been exacerbated during the pandemic as workers, businesses, students and families struggle to stay connected.

Ex-Maine GOP Chair Rick Bennett backs Eric Brakey for U.S. Senate

Rick Bennett steps down as Maine GOP head; may run for office

Rick Bennett to step down as head of Maine GOP

Maine GOP starts citizen initiative on tax and welfare reform