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.
Randy Billings
Staff Writer
Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been the State House bureau chief since 2021. He was named the Maine Press Association’s Journalist of the Year in 2020. He joined the Press Herald in 2012 as the Portland City Hall reporter, where his beat touched on a wide range of topics, including municipal government, immigration, homelessness, housing and social services. Prior to that, he worked at various weeklies as well as business and arts publications. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine, Orono. He lives in North Yarmouth with his wife and two children and enjoys the outdoors and playing his upright bass.
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.
advertisement
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.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Governor, House speaker call on Senate president to reconvene budget committee
Gov. Janet Mills also has asked Senate President Troy Jackson to hold a floor vote on a $60 million proposal to rebuild storm-damaged coastal infrastructure.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
House censures Republican lawmakers who said Lewiston shooting was God’s response to abortion expansion
House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross requires Reps. Michael Lemelin and Shelley Rudnicki to read a formal apology on the House floor before restoring their right to speak during floor debates.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine Legislature advances abortion, gender care shield bill after heated debate
The legislation to shield providers of legally protected abortion and gender-affirming care from hostile, out-of-state litigation faces more votes in both chambers before going to the governor.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Gov. Janet Mills vetoes bill to end 3 strikes law for thefts
L.D. 2246, sponsored by Rep. David Sinclair, D-Bath, would prohibit charging a person who already has at least 2 prior theft convictions with a Class C felony if the third theft is of property valued at $500 or less.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
House folds on bill to give tribes exclusive internet gaming rights
The proposal sought to build off the tribe’s exclusive rights to online sports gambling.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Lawmakers pass paramilitary ban, sending bill to Gov. Mills
Gov. Janet Mills has 10 days to decide whether to sign, veto or allow the bill to become law without her signature.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Democrats may reconsider budget changes criticized by Gov. Mills, Republicans
Republican House Minority Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham called for the removal of the Democratic House chair, Melanie Sachs, for creating a ‘toxic and hostile’ environment by dismissing Republican concerns.