Supporters of the bill say the charge could be easily weathered by the wealthy owners of the private, luxury vessels. But critics say it could serve as a deterrent to tourism.
maine legislature
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Politics
Trump policies expected to cause 25% drop in Canadian tourism to Maine
The state’s top tourism official told lawmakers her office is aggressively working to bring in more U.S. tourists to make up for the loss of international travelers, but so are other states.
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Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine lawmakers ask RFK Jr. to reconsider dismissal of heating assistance staff
In a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services secretary, 92 Maine lawmakers asked for an explanation of how the LIHEAP program will run without its federal staff.
Posted inLocal & State
Airport bill faces headwinds from Maine aviation officials and environmentalists
The legislation would loosen development restrictions meant to protect endangered species.
Posted inLocal & State
State audit flags deficient oversight of outside contracts, school meals, welfare
Maine’s financial services department said it takes all findings seriously and will work to address them, while Republicans have asked for a federal investigation on particular issues related to how the state awards contracts.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine House speaker asks court to dismiss Rep. Laurel Libby’s lawsuit
The Auburn Republican sued Ryan Fecteau last month, arguing that he and House Democrats violated her constitutional rights by blocking her from voting or speaking on the floor.
Posted inBusiness, News, Politics
Trump’s policies cloud Maine’s economic outlook
President Donald Trump’s global trade war and federal spending cuts — as well as his threat of cutting funds to Maine — have state officials preparing for slowing economic growth and rising unemployment.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine lawmakers hear proposal to decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms
The proposal from Rep. Grayson Lookner, D-Portland, would decriminalize the possession of one ounce or less of psilocybin for adults over age 21.
Posted inTimes Record
Woolwich rep. wants free state park admission for veterans’ families
Rep. Allison Hepler, D-Woolwich, introduced legislation on March 25 that would restore free admission to state parks and historic sites for the immediate family members of veterans and active military personnel. “When a person serves in the military, in many ways, so does their family,” Hepler said. “Veterans make up nearly 10% of Maine’s population, […]
Posted inLocal & State, News
Maine moving forward with budworm control, but funding delay will limit spray area
After the Legislature failed to pass $2 million in emergency funding, spraying this spring will cover only about 85% of the area threatened by the forest pest.