Fitch Ratings upgrades the state’s fiscal outlook from stable to positive.
Gov. Janet Mills
Maine expects $265 million budget surplus over 2 years
The stronger-than-expected revenue forecast – including a $139 million surplus in this fiscal year – is driven primarily by consumer spending, sales tax growth and income tax returns.
Gov. Mills, tribal leaders hold three-hour summit on sovereignty issues
While no breakthroughs were reported, both sides agreed to work together during the upcoming legislative session.
Commission investigating Lewiston shootings begins ‘daunting’ task, requests subpoena power
The commission appoints 4 staff members, says it plans to issue a written report on its findings within 6 months and plans to ask the Legislature for authorization to issue subpoenas.
State workers call on Gov. Mills to raise wages
Employees delivered more than 1,100 letters to the governor, arguing that lagging public sector salaries are responsible for rampant job vacancies in state government.
Commission investigating Lewiston shootings will hold first meeting next week
The seven-member panel appointed by Gov. Janet Mills will meet Monday in Augusta to discuss the path forward in investigating the Oct. 25 shootings.
Mills abruptly ends press conference on Lewiston shootings after questioning turns combative
Speaking at the State House on Monday afternoon, Gov. Janet Mills stopped short of calling for changes to state or federal gun laws.
Maine asks for federal waiver to let asylum seekers go to work
Although there is no provision for such waivers, the request comes as advocates lobby Congress to support a bill sponsored by Rep. Chellie Pingree to shorten the waiting time for work permits.
Maine is named a forest bioproducts tech hub, opening door to investment
The highly competitive designation comes with a $500,000 planning grant and the opportunity to receive an additional $50 million-$75 million in federal funding for wood fiber bioproducts innovation.
Gov. Mills’ post of encampment photos puzzles allies and critics alike
The governor removed a Facebook post that included photos of a Portland homeless encampment juxtaposed with more idyllic scenes of mountains, lakes, the coast and a county fair and words that asked “where in Maine are these spots?”