AUGUSTA — A woman pleaded guilty Tuesday to a series of theft charges, including one in which she clogged a toilet in Rite Aid in Waterville with packaging from items that she had shoplifted from the store.

AUGUSTA — Questioning why lawmakers weren’t told sooner about costly computer problems in the Department of Health and Human Services, a legislative panel voted unanimously Tuesday to authorize an investigation of the department.

AUGUSTA — A scaled-down version of Gov. Paul LePage’s $38 million supplemental budget that makes less severe cuts to General Assistance will come before the Legislature this week.

AUGUSTA — In a whirlwind meeting Tuesday, the Legislature’s Transportation Committee heard testimony on, debated and passed a bill to deter irresponsible driving among teens.

CHINA — Selectmen have agreed unenthusiastically to put a home occupations ordinance on the June ballot, while a proposed revamping of the shoreland septic system compliance program remains in limbo.

CHELSEA — Town officials hope volunteers will stop by the Town Office to pick up nomination papers for seven open seats on the new Board of Assessment Review.