Lawmakers slam the state Public Utilities Commission for not considering ‘legislator intent’ in a decision that will cut funding for the energy efficiency program.
Steve Mistler
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Portland’s fight with state over shelter costs puts focus on ‘broken system’ statewide
Advocates push for fixes to Maine’s financing of 42 facilities for the homeless as demand grows.
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Posted inPolitics
Panel wants lawmakers to have final say on any plan for Keno in Maine
Gov. Paul LePage has backed off adding the gambling game this year, but the state’s lottery bureau now has the authority to add it without legislative approval.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Legislative panel backs bill to restrict out-of-staters’ role in Maine petition drives
The unanimous vote raises the odds of passage for the bill, which could affect the initiation of potential bear-baiting and marijuana ballot questions.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine legislator apologizes for Facebook remarks about Obama and terrorists, but remains under fire
Sen. Michael Willette says he failed to ‘show restraint’ and that other posts about immigrants were not racist, but Democrats want the Republican punished.
Posted inNews, Politics
LePage backing off plan to add Keno to Maine lottery games
The announcement follows criticism from state lawmakers that the game would transform restaurants and convenience stores into mini-casinos.
Posted inNews, Politics
Conservation groups say LePage withholding bonds puts projects in jeopardy
The governor has authorized the release of less than $1 million of $11.47 million approved by voters in 2010 and 2012, yet even that amount hasn’t been disbursed to the conservation projects.
Posted inNews, Politics
Some Maine legislators try to block state’s plan to add Keno to lottery
An agency official says the game is similar to instant tickets and would raise revenue, but some legislators see too many negatives and submit a bill to stop it.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine bill restricting cellphone use while driving divides committee
The Transportation Committee votes 7-6 to defeat the measure, but one member says he could change his mind.
Posted inNews, Politics
Republican leaders’ response to LePage reveals rift on tax initiative
The governor has steadily increased his criticism of lawmakers who have not fully embraced his proposed overhaul.