The Taxation Committee votes to expand benefits for low-income seniors under 2 existing programs, a move Democrats say will lead to more assistance to seniors who need help the most.
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, News, Politics
Gov. Mills opposes bill to allow Maine tribes to benefit from most federal laws
A spokesperson said the governor would rather address specific bills and programs that unfairly exclude the Wabanaki Nations.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Last-minute bill would allow Maine tribes to benefit from federal laws
Penobscot Nation Chief Kirk Francis said the measure, which would not allow Indigenous tribes to operate a casino without special permission from the state, is a top priority for the legislative session that is nearing an end.
Posted inLocal & State
Critics say report on child’s death sidestepped state’s failures
A legislative committee heard emotional testimony about the state’s oversight of 3-year-old Maddox Williams, who was killed in 2021.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Lawmakers may study hospital ‘facility fees’ before restricting them
Ann Woloson, executive director of Mainers for Affordable Health Care, said she supports creating a task force to study the issue and balance the needs of patients and hospitals.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Impacts of federal debt default could spread through Maine’s workforce, economy
The state has a lot of federal workers, and a lot of retirees and veterans who collect benefits. The biggest worry, though, seems to be in the unknown. The U.S. has never defaulted on its debts.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Proposals to protect digital privacy draw opposition from tech companies, business groups
Lawmakers are considering bills to prevent the use or sale of a range of personal data. Opponents say Maine’s rules would be too burdensome on businesses.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine parties spar over spending, tax cuts as budget talks heat up
Republicans say continuing to increase state spending as many families struggle to meet basic needs is ‘not a good sell’ for Democrats.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Lawmakers clash over gun bills, but make little progress on legislation
The fate of several gun safety bills remain in limbo after split committee votes, with legislators on both sides of the aisle accusing the opposition of being intransigent.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Effort to restore parole in Maine appears unlikely after committee vote
The bill was rejected 6-5 by the Legislature’s Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee and faces ongoing opposition from Gov. Janet Mills, a former prosecutor.