House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross presented a sweeping bill Monday to expand the rights of Maine tribes to govern themselves, but negotiations are focused on a few specific reforms that supporters say have a chance to pass this year.
maine legislature
Posted inLocal & State
Maine unveils new license plate with natural-looking pine tree
The change was spurred by concerns that Maine’s older chickadee plates have deteriorated beyond the point of recognition and pose safety risks.
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Posted inHealth, Local & State
Maine panel seeks help for National Guard members exposed to harmful chemicals
Agent Orange and other powerful herbicides were used near the Gagetown military base in New Brunswick starting in the 1960s.
Posted inLocal & State, Uncategorized
Maine teachers call on lawmakers to raise their minimum salary
A bill before the Legislature would increase the minimum teacher salary from $40,000 to $50,000 by the 2027-28 school year. Another proposal would establish a minimum wage for education technicians and support staff.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Tensions rise as Legislature prepares to debate gun safety in wake of Lewiston shooting
A partisan fight over the hearing process for Gov. Janet Mills’ proposal to expand background checks on firearm sales and increase access to crisis mental health care suggests a bipartisan compromise may be elusive even after the mass shooting.
Posted inLocal & State
Lawmakers support funding for African American, Wabanaki studies in schools
The Maine House of Representatives voted to pass a bill Thursday that would provide grant funding and support.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine attorney general’s office could get dedicated civil rights unit
A bill sponsored by House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross would create a dedicated unit to investigate complaints and establish a panel to ensure best practices are followed.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Critics blast Republican bill targeting foreign nationals as ‘blatantly racist’
Rep. John Andrews, R-Paris, is proposing a state-level anti-racketeering law and a prohibition against certain foreign nationals purchasing property in Maine in response to illegal marijuana growing operations.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Politics
Dozens of Maine lawmakers call on Cabela’s, Kittery Trading Post to stop selling military-style rifles
The letters referencing the semi-automatic weapons commonly referred to as assault rifles were spearheaded by Rep. Lori Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Ban on paramilitary training camps barely clears first hurdle in Maine House vote
The bill passed the Democratic-controlled House 66-60 with 6 Democrats joining unified opposition from Republicans and 24 lawmakers absent.