The Maine State Chamber of Commerce says employers who want to eventually opt out of the program by offering their own paid leave benefit still would have to pay into the fund for 16 months.
maine legislature
Opponents move to overturn Maine law supporting national popular vote
Lebanon resident James DuPrie has filed paperwork with the Maine Department of the Secretary of State to initiate a people’s veto referendum of the new law. He needs to collect 67,682 valid signatures by Aug. 8.
Waterville Democrat faces primary challenge after voting against abortion bills
Rep. Bruce White voted against key measures backed by his party, including a law expanding abortion access later in pregnancy and a proposed constitutional right to abortion. His opponent, Cassie Julia, has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood.
First-term Durham Republican representative missed 67% of Legislature’s session days this year
Rep. Joseph Galletta hasn’t explained his absences – all of which were excused by his fellow lawmakers – but wants to be reelected.
Absent Maine Democrats ceded majority to Republicans on Legislature’s final day
Roughly a quarter of the caucus didn’t cast veto override votes to save key bills on May 10. A handful of that group said they were at the State House but knew the votes would fall short.
Gov. Mills won’t sign 35 last-minute spending bills
Mills says she will let the bills die because she believes lawmakers lacked the legal authority to enact them on Friday and is concerned that signing them will lead to litigation and uncertainty.
Inside the chaotic conclusion of the 131st Legislature
After a long day of voting and negotiating, Democrats in the Maine House didn’t have enough members present Friday to pass the remaining bills.
Dozens of departing Maine lawmakers could alter balance of power
Most of the open legislative seats heading into the fall – 22 of 39 – are currently held by Democrats, giving Republicans a mathematical advantage. But other factors also play a role.
Some influential Maine lawmakers are about to give up their seats. What’s next for them?
Here’s what 10 prominent legislators had to say about their time in office and their future plans.
After uncertainty and a bit of Democratic infighting, the 131st Maine Legislature adjourns
Senate Democrats passed 80 additional spending bills, despite protests by Gov. Janet Mills. The House, however, voted to adjourn without taking the bills up.