Maine’s independent senator teams up with an Alaska Republican on a bill to require the U.S. Supreme Court to adopt a code of conduct and investigate complaints, while Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree has co-sponsored similar bills in the U.S. House.
Randy Billings
Staff Writer
Randy Billings is a government watchdog and political reporter who has been the State House bureau chief since 2021. He was named the Maine Press Association’s Journalist of the Year in 2020. He joined the Press Herald in 2012 as the Portland City Hall reporter, where his beat touched on a wide range of topics, including municipal government, immigration, homelessness, housing and social services. Prior to that, he worked at various weeklies as well as business and arts publications. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine, Orono. He lives in North Yarmouth with his wife and two children and enjoys the outdoors and playing his upright bass.
Posted inLocal & State
Report cites missed opportunities in Maddox Williams case
But the review of the state’s handling of the 3-year-old’s death in 2021 found that caseworkers didn’t make any “unsound” decisions. It also illustrates the complexities Child Protective Services faces in cases involving substance use, mental health and numerous parents.
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Posted inLocal & State
State leaders denounce white supremacist letters sent to lawmakers
At least 8 Democratic legislators received the letters Wednesday, leaders said. A former Portland City Council candidate read the same letter aloud at Monday’s council meeting.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Bill would protect access to gender-affirming care that’s being restricted by other states
MaineCare has covered gender-affirming care such as mental health counseling, surgery and hormone treatments since 2019, but guaranteeing coverage in state law would prevent a future governor from easily eliminating that coverage.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Lawmakers urged to open a safe consumption site to prevent fatal drug overdoses
While not allowed under federal law, safe consumption sites are opening in at least 2 states and being considered in others as a way to prevent overdose deaths and connect people to medical care and treatment services.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
State Republicans want work requirements for those receiving public assistance
As the legislative minority, Republicans lack the numbers to enact any welfare reforms like those passed during former Gov. Paul LePage’s 2 terms.
Posted inLocal & State
Legislative Democrats plan review of AG’s relationship with staffer
A spokesperson for Senate President Troy Jackson said he wants to be sure a clear policy is put in place to protect the integrity of the office.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Legislature takes on gun control, including background checks, waiting period
Lawmakers heard hours of testimony, with supporters saying the bills would help reduce gun violence, while opponents said the bills would infringe on law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine Legislature passes budget over Republicans’ objections
Democrats used their majorities in both chambers to pass a continuing services budget in hopes of avoiding a potential government shutdown in July.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
State budget rancor grows ahead of Thursday vote
Democrats are expected to pass a current services budget this week and postpone any discussion about Republican demands for income tax breaks until later in the session.