But the House votes later Thursday to narrow the bill to allow only a 1% tax on lodging, in hopes of attracting additional Senate votes.
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Posted inElections, Local & State, News, Politics
Democrat Betsy Sweet announces election challenge to Sen. Collins in 2020
The longtime State House lobbyist, who made an unsuccessful bid for governor in 2018, is the first prominent Democrat to enter the race.
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Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine House kills bill to require background checks for private gun sales
The measure would have required private gun sellers to obtain background checks on buyers from federally licensed firearms dealers.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Politics
Maine House narrowly approves local option sales tax
The bill, which now goes to the Senate, would let municipalities levy 1% on restaurant meals and lodging if OK’d by local voters.
Posted inElections, Local & State, News, Politics
Automatic voter registration bill moves a step closer to law in Maine
The bill, sponsored by House Speaker Sara Gideon, would automatically register people to vote when they get or renew their driver’s licenses in Maine.
Posted inBill Nemitz, Local & State, News, Op-eds, Opinion
Bill Nemitz: Local business washes away a big-box store nightmare
After Home Depot makes a washer and dryer go poof, Central Furniture and Appliance shows the age-old art of good customer relations.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, News, Politics
Bill to add tobacco tax to vaping products moves forward
The bill calls for an additional tax on all electronic cigarettes and other vaping products, at a rate similar to cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine House rejects ‘stand your ground’ bill backed by gun rights advocates
The 78-57 vote falls largely along party lines, with Republicans supporting the measure and Democrats opposing it.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics, Schools and Education
Lawmakers urged to save advanced placement program for students in rural Maine
The AP4ALL program is targeted for elimination by the state Department of Education, but supporters say it provides important access to courses for students in smaller schools.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Politics
Maine Legislature inches toward deal on new state budget
Members of both parties express confidence an agreement could be reached, but sticking points remain on Gov. Janet Mill’s $8 billion, two-year proposal.