Changes to Maine’s mining law didn’t go far enough, said Mary and Gary Freeman, who in 2021 discovered a lithium deposit on their land estimated to be worth $1.5 billion.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Laurel Libby seeks reinstatement of her right to speak on House floor
The Republican from Auburn had her voting rights temporarily restored by the U.S. Supreme Court last month, but she still can’t speak during floor debates while her suit against Speaker Ryan Fecteau over her censure proceeds.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics, Schools and Education
Bill to support later high school start times passes in House, Senate
The measure, which originally mandated a statewide 8:30 a.m. or later high school start time, was amended to create funding for districts to pilot a later start time.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine lawmakers want to examine how judges are disciplined. The judicial branch says it’s not their call.
The debate in the Legislature follows an ethics complaint against Maine Supreme Court Justice Catherine Connors that has yet to be resolved.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Some Maine criminal records would automatically be sealed under bill before Legislature
Supporters say it’s about time. Opponents want to see more research, and say the bill contradicts findings of a recent committee that recommended further study.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine’s public transportation options are limited. Lawmakers would like to change that.
Public transit options currently meet only about 11% of the state’s total transportation needs, according to a recent report.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine crime victims could lose ‘safety net’ of services without major state investment
Resources like 24-hour hotlines, emergency shelters and legal advocacy could all be at risk if Maine doesn’t figure out how to make up for millions lost in federal funding for victim services.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Dam safety reforms considered by Maine lawmakers
The measures include bolstering the state’s enforcement actions, expanding mapping efforts and updating the pay scale for Maine’s chief dam inspector.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Camden lawmaker proposes increase in state fines for improper pesticide use
The bill, submitted in response to a high-profile case in 2022, would raise fines from $1,500 per violation to $25,000 — and more if the violator is shown to have benefited or committed prior violations.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News
Proposal for passenger rail to Bangor loses steam in committee
The Legislature’s transportation committee says LD 487 ‘ought not to pass,’ especially without assured funding from the Trump administration.