The new rule does not go so far as to prohibit new oil and gas leasing on public lands, as many environmental groups have urged and as Democratic President Biden promised during the 2020 campaign.
Business
Local, state and national business news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Strong winds knock out power to thousands of CMP customers
The National Weather Service said winds gusted up to 50 mph on Friday, but that sunnier, drier weather is on the way over the weekend and into next week.
Hop water infuses Maine breweries with new market potential
New to the nonalcoholic beverage market, hop-flavored seltzer water already has plenty of fans in Maine’s craft brew industry.
Wex sues HP for copyright infringement over its new software system
The federal lawsuit says that HP’s ‘Workforce Experience Platform’ – or WEX – is a fleet management software tool that has similar features to what Wex provides.
Biden administration will require thousands more gun dealers to run background checks
The rule aims to close a loophole that has allowed tens of thousands of guns to be sold every year by unlicensed dealers who do not perform background checks. Gun rights groups are expected to fight it in court.
Breaking from routine with a mini sabbatical or ‘adult gap year’ can be rejuvenating
Cost is a common obstacle for people considering a break. There are creative ways around that.
Homebuyers’ quandary: To wait or not to wait for lower mortgage rates?
Holding out for a more attractive rate can make a big difference, especially for first-time homebuyers who often struggle to find an affordable home. But lower rates could drive up prices, too.
Instagram begins blurring nudity in messages to protect teens and fight sexual extortion
Instagram and other social media companies have faced growing criticism for not doing enough to protect young people.
USPS draws fire for plan to shift some operations from Hampden to Scarborough
The move is criticized by union leaders and opposed by Sen. Susan Colllins and Rep. Jared Golden, who plans to introduce legislation freezing the consolidation mail processing centers nationwide.
After debate, lawmakers approve bill to license contractors in Maine
L.D. 1929 received initial approval from the House of Representatives and Senate this week, but could face opposition from the Mills administration, which filed testimony against the bill last session.