Two Republicans joined Democrats in voting for the measure, which would exempt businesses from paying state taxes on federal Paycheck Protection Program loans, but it faces a stiffer test in the House.
Politics
Local, statewide and national political news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Pentagon approves extending Guard deployment at Capitol
Close to 2,300 Guard troops will continue to provide security in Washington until May 23, at the request of the Capitol Police.
Maine not alone in finding fault with human resources software firm
Some lawmakers are calling for an investigation of the state’s contract with California-based Workday Inc., which was hired to update Maine’s antiquated employee benefits system but walked off the job last month.
Biden proves tough target for Republicans, who turn to culture wars instead
Additionally, Republican efforts to combat the Democratic president have been slowed by the civil war in its own ranks as the party grapples with its direction in Trump’s persistent shadow.
Child tax credit expansion sets up showdown with Republicans
Families earning less than $75,000 will receive monthly installments of up to $3,600 annually per child under the American Rescue Plan.
With big relief package, Biden bets government can help cure America
The president is staking his presidency on the idea that the government can use his $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief plan not only to stop a pandemic and jobs crisis but also to catapult the country forward to tackle deep issues of poverty, inequality and more.
Political divisions stoke push by states to increase wolf kills
Some lawmakers and conservative hunting groups are making a big push to reduce wolf numbers in what critics call “management based on vengeance.”
With virus aid in sight, Democrats debate filibuster changes
West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin says the filibuster ‘maybe has to be more painful.’
Biden marks ‘Bloody Sunday’ by signing voting rights order
The bill includes restricting partisan gerrymandering of congressional districts and expanding access to voter registration.
Calls grow for New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to resign over sexual harassment allegations
However, the New York governor – who is facing multiple allegations of sexual harassment – said at a press conference Sunday that it would be ‘anti-democratic’ for him to step down.