Democrats still hope to achieve a bipartisan alternative that limits the impact on older residents.

The $2 million project in Wells had been blocked by a state dune law.

Republicans say the overhaul would lower prices for all; Democrats say it will be ‘disastrous’ and divide the state.

Despite criticism, House Republicans are expected to preliminarily OK the health coverage overhaul.

The provisions would strengthen oversight after a review uncovered lavish spending that led the director to resign.

The four-year-old law was enacted to protect downtown businesses from big-box retailers.

The law was enacted just four years ago to protect Maine’s downtown business districts from the effects of big-box stores such as Wal-Mart and Home Depot.

Committee Republicans support the plan despite criticism that the implications are still unclear.