AUGUSTA (AP) — The Maine House of Representatives has given the first nod to a bill that would remove or relocate dozens of informational signs along the state’s interstate highways.
The Democratic-led House approved the bill 120-23 on Thursday. It faces further votes in both chambers.
Supporters of the bill say removing signs for things like colleges, parks and recreational attractions next to Maine’s highways is necessary to conform to federal law. They say the state is at risk of losing millions in highway funding if it doesn’t comply.
But the bill has drawn fierce opposition from some lawmakers and municipal officials who say the signs are vital at attracting visitors and bringing in tourism dollars.
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