It was an interesting session marked by both conflict and camaraderie, but we managed to pass some good laws that will benefit Maine people.
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Posted inBusiness, Maine, News, Politics
Legal sports betting gets scratched, at least for now, as governor puts legislation on hold
Gov. Janet Mills says she held 39 measures because of technical problems, conflicts with existing laws or concerns about costs.
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Posted inBusiness, Maine, News
Police and motorists prepare for ban on handling phones while driving
The state law against holding a cellphone or other device while driving is set to take effect in mid-September.
Posted inThe Penobscot Times
A responsible, bipartisan budget for Maine families and seniors
The budget Gov. Mills signed passed the Legislature with strong support from members of both parties, bringing back a tradition of bipartisanship and collegiality in the budget process that has been missing in recent years.
Posted inBusiness, Lewiston-Auburn, Maine, News
‘Wasn’t a bad session’ in Augusta for business, says state chamber
Gov. Janet Mills and the Democratic-controlled Legislature proved willing to both listen and compromise on potentially tough issues for Maine’s business community, chamber executives said.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, News, Politics
Maine House rejects bill to increase estate tax
The 70-75 vote against lowering the excluded amount from $5.6 million to $2 million comes after a short debate.
Posted inMaine, 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 inMaine, News, Politics
Senate says ‘no’ to letting cities and towns levy their own sales taxes
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.
Posted inBusiness, Maine, 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 inMaine, 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.