The last administration’s hostility to renewable energy has put the state years behind on the kind of regulatory upgrades needed to fairly price this energy.
legislature
Mills signs bill to preserve incentive for solar energy producers
The measure allows homeowners to continue receiving credits for solar power they generate and send to the regional grid.
Mayors ask lawmakers to let cities and towns raise revenue with local sales taxes
Bills considered Wednesday would allow municipalities to increase the sales tax within their borders. Opponents say the new taxes would hurt businesses.
Truancy law may soon cover Maine’s youngest students
After falling short after vetoes by Gov. Paul LePage the past two sessions, legislators this year are likely to push through a measure to extend truancy laws to 5- and 6-year-olds enrolled in school.
Lawmakers weigh ‘ban the box’ bill to help former prisoners get jobs
Taking the question of criminal history off the application would allow an opportunity to get to know the person who is applying, she said on behalf of the Maine Prisoner Advocacy Coalition.
Election Day might become a state holiday in Maine celebrating democracy
Supporters of the idea, which has been picking up steam for years, say that more people would have a chance to vote if fewer had to go to work.
In a tumultuous time, Maine searches for civility
The state is already known nationally for its more measured discourse, but groups and political leaders push harder for compromise over conflict.
Medicaid expansion, pot, workforce on agenda for lawmakers
Democratic House Speaker Sara Gideon and Senate President Troy Jackson say they want to move on from the divisive politics of the LePage era and invest in Maine’s economy.
Maine Senate Democrats elect Troy Jackson of Allagash as minority leader
They also select Nate Libby of Lewiston to serve as assistant minority leader for the next two-year session.
Republicans maintain control of Maine Senate by one seat
Democrats also lost ground to Republicans in the House in Tuesday’s elections but still have a one-seat edge.