Maine has long prided itself on being a place where fairness, integrity and independence matter. Yet, when it comes to protecting our citizens’ most basic constitutional rights, we rely almost entirely on federal courts and federal statutes. It’s time to change that.

A Universal Civil Rights Act — such as those adopted in states like Minnesota and Colorado — would allow Mainers to seek justice in state court when their federal constitutional rights are violated by government actors. This isn’t about duplicating Washington’s authority; it’s about ensuring that the promise of equal protection and due process is meaningful here at home.

Currently, Maine citizens who suffer unlawful searches, retaliation for free speech or discrimination by federal officials often face impossible hurdles in federal litigation. A state-level enforcement mechanism would make accountability more immediate, accessible and rooted in Maine’s own legal values. It would also encourage better training and oversight of public agencies, helping avoid violations before they happen.

If we truly believe that liberty and justice are more than slogans, we should not leave their defense to distant courts or partisan swings in federal law. Maine can and should join the growing number of states affirming that constitutional rights deserve real, enforceable remedies at every level of government.

It’s time we passed a Universal Civil Rights Act. Justice shouldn’t stop at the state line.

George Simonson
Harpswell