Nurses from Portland to Presque Isle have told me they are unable to either save patients’ lives or ensure they go home without any preventable complications. L.D. 1639 could change that.
maine legislature
Last-minute bill would allow Maine tribes to benefit from federal laws
Penobscot Nation Chief Kirk Francis said the measure, which would not allow Indigenous tribes to operate a casino without special permission from the state, is a top priority for the legislative session that is nearing an end.
Over 100 small businesses urge Maine lawmakers to pass paid family leave bill
A letter to legislators and Gov. Janet Mills says there is strong support for the bill in the business community, despite concerns some have that the legislation would unduly burden small companies.
Maine now has a state butterfly thanks to 2 inquisitive fifth graders
The Old Orchard Beach students reached out to their state representative, Lori Gramlich, who worked with them on submitting a bill naming the Pink-edged Sulphur as Maine’s official butterfly.
Critics say report on child’s death sidestepped state’s failures
A legislative committee heard emotional testimony about the state’s oversight of 3-year-old Maddox Williams, who was killed in 2021.
Commentary: No government mandate will fix the challenges Maine’s hospital nurses face
Maine Med urges lawmakers to focus on health care education funding and accountability for those who assault nurses, not rigid staffing ratios.
Gov. Mills proposes changes to paid family leave plan
As proponents rally to build support for the bill, the governor recommends tightening eligibility and reducing payouts for the proposal, which is under attack from some business groups that say it would be too burdensome on employers.
Lawmakers may study hospital ‘facility fees’ before restricting them
Ann Woloson, executive director of Mainers for Affordable Health Care, said she supports creating a task force to study the issue and balance the needs of patients and hospitals.
Commentary: Nuclear power won’t help Maine reach its clean-energy goals
The industry lobby is promoting a renewed call for investments in nuclear technology, but there are less complex, more affordable choices.
Maine lawmakers back bill to allow 16- and 17-year-olds access to gender-affirming care without parents’ consent
The bill was supported by all but one Democrat on the Judiciary Committee. One Republican, Sen. Eric Brakey, voted in support as well; the other Republicans left before the vote Tuesday.