The proposal would allow convictions for marijuana cultivation and possession crimes committed prior to legalization to be eligible for sealing by a judge.
maine legislature
What it will take for Maine schools to serve more kids with disabilities
A bill pending in the Legislature would require schools to educate and provide services for 3- and 4-year-olds. Some districts are showing the way.
Committee endorses $30 million bond to support Maine trails
The proposal needs two-thirds support in both the House of Representatives and Senate in order to be sent to voters in November.
Committee advances proposal to raise minimum wage for Maine farmworkers
The Committee on Labor and Housing passed an amended version of Gov. Janet Mills’ bill to raise the minimum wage for farmworkers to $14.15 per hour, the same rate as that for other workers.
Maine lawmakers scrap bill to decriminalize drug possession; opt for study instead
The original proposal sought to treat substance use as a public health issue and would have set up receiving centers to help people dealing with a crisis.
House narrowly approves bill to send fewer youths to troubled prison
The proposal would allow the state to assess the needs of young people accused of crimes and provide them with services so they can remain in the community, rather than be sent to Long Creek Youth Development Center.
Passenger train service through central Maine halted by representatives in Augusta
The bill would look at the feasibility of running a passenger rail between Portland and Bangor, with stops in Lewiston, Auburn, Waterville and just west of Augusta.
Committee backs expanded background checks, waiting period for gun purchases
The Judiciary Committee also will soon take up a last-minute bill that would put in place ‘an improved crisis intervention order’ for restricting access to firearms when people are deemed to be a threat.
Maine Democrats advance digital privacy bill opposed by businesses
The measure would enact strict limits on when a company can collect, store and analyze consumer information, while creating exemptions for nonprofits, educational institutions and hospitals.
Maine Legislature passes shoreland zoning bill giving municipalities ability to enforce and remediate violations
The legislation gives enforcement authority on new permits, restoration of shoreland and allows municipalities and Land Use Planning Commission the right to place a lien on property with unresolved violations.