Unusually warm and mostly snow-free, the past few months have continued a long-term trend consistent with a warming planet.
Times Record News
Posted inKennebec Journal, Maine, News
Constitutional concerns raised about Augusta’s proposed aggressive solicitation ban
City councilors have been divided on the ordinance, which was proposed in response to concerns about aggressive, intimidating behavior.
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Posted inBusiness, Maine
CMP ratepayers could see bills jump 12% to cover rising solar power subsidies
The utility is asking the Maine Public Utilities Commission for permission to bill ratepayers $116 million for subsidies paid to solar developers in the net energy billing program that is part of Maine’s effort to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Posted inMaine, Maine Crime
Lawsuit alleges founder of Special Olympics Maine sexually abused child for decades
An Augusta man says Melvin ‘Mickey’ Boutilier, who died in 2012, starting abusing him when he was a child in the 1960s.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News, Politics
Maine House rebuffs plan to use performance as guide for utility rates
Several Democrats joined solid Republican opposition to reject legislation that proposes a first step in judging utilities’ performance when setting rates.
Posted inMaine, News, Outdoors, Politics
Maine’s high court rules Sunday hunting ban is constitutional
The Maine Supreme Judicial Court disagrees with a Readfield couple who argued that the ban contradicts a ‘right to food’ amendment voters approved in 2021.
Posted inMaine, News
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.
Posted inHealth, Maine, Politics
After intense lobbying, Maine Senate backs bill to set minimum nurse staffing in hospitals
The legislation would set required ratios in an effort to improve working conditions and ease a nursing shortage. Opponents say the measure would reduce access to care.
Posted inMaine, Morning Sentinel, News
Skowhegan Indian sculpture could be removed if chamber of commerce cannot find new owner
The Skowhegan Regional Chamber of Commerce, which owns the 62-foot-tall sculpture of a Native American fisherman, has offered the artwork to the town of Skowhegan, before seeking other potential owners.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, Politics
Labor advocates, farmers call for changes to proposed minimum wage for farmworkers
Some want a lower minimum wage for young farmworkers, while others advocate preserving the right to sue an agricultural employer for failing to pay minimum wage.