At a public hearing Friday, critics highlighted a range of proposed changes likely to go before voters in November, including restrictions on absentee voting.
maine legislature
Electric vehicle owners may have to pay a $250 annual fee in Maine
Maine is among a minority of states that do not charge electric vehicle registration fees, though that could change with a proposal currently before lawmakers.
Maine lawmakers still betting on accessory dwelling units to help end housing crisis
Following the passage of a landmark law in 2022, a bill seeks to further encourage the construction of small housing units also known as in-law suites.
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.
Maine bill would protect personal belongings during homeless encampment sweeps
A bill before lawmakers would require state and local governments to provide notice and hold hearings before removing a homeless person’s belongings from public property.
Rep. Laurel Libby asks U.S. Supreme Court to restore her right to vote in Maine Legislature
The Auburn Republican said she has filed an emergency application with the nation’s highest court after 2 lower courts denied a temporary restoration of her voting privileges as her lawsuit against the House speaker plays out.
Mainers call on lawmakers to protect renters, boost housing production
The Legislature’s Housing and Economic Development Committee heard from renters, advocates, landlords and developers during a daylong hearing on the state’s housing crisis.
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.
School leaders want more options to restrain students with violent behavior
District leaders are concerned about increasing behavioral issues in schools just a few years after the state raised the threshold to physically restrain or seclude students.
Maine’s new paid family leave law faces several efforts to hamstring program
The Legislature’s labor committee on Wednesday aired more than a dozen bills that would amend, delay or outright repeal the 2023 law.