Maine lawmakers have passed several gun safety measures in response to a mass shooting in Lewiston last year, including a 72-hour waiting period on gun purchases, expanded background checks, and a ban on bump stocks. However, they failed to pass a "red flag" law that would have made it easier to remove guns from individuals considered mentally unwell or dangerous. Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat who sponsored some of the legislation, is expected to sign the bills into law.
Maine's Democratic governor, Janet Mills, has allowed a proposal to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact to become law without her signature, which would allocate all of the state's electoral votes to the national popular vote winner. However, the compact won't impact the upcoming November election and faces hurdles, including the need for states with at least 270 electoral votes to join. The debate in Maine fell along partisan lines, with Republicans opposing the measure, and the state's unique system of splitting electoral votes was highlighted as a point of contention.
Governor Janet Mills praised Mainers for their resilience and resolve in her State of the State address, outlining plans to invest in improved infrastructure to address vulnerabilities to extreme weather and proposing legislation aimed at addressing gun violence and mental health issues in the state. The proposals include establishing an Injury and Violence Prevention Program, strengthening the mental health system, and prohibiting dangerous individuals from possessing weapons. While some Democratic leaders applauded the proposals, some lawmakers and advocates are hoping for more comprehensive measures, while Republican lawmakers express concerns about potential impacts on gun owners' rights.
More than 250,000 customers in Maine are still without power following a devastating storm that caused widespread flooding. The restoration efforts have been hindered by fallen trees, power lines, and flooding waterways, including the Androscoggin and Kennebec Rivers, which are experiencing 100-year floods. Governor Janet Mills has declared a State of Civil Emergency and is touring impacted areas. It is estimated that some customers may have to wait several more days before their electricity is restored.
Governor Janet Mills has declared a State of Civil Emergency for 14 of Maine's 16 counties following a historic storm that left hundreds of thousands without power and caused significant flooding and damage. The declaration mobilizes all state resources for recovery efforts, with the Governor's Office also seeking federal disaster support. Mainers are urged to exercise caution and stay off roads and flooded areas to allow for assessment and restoration efforts.
Maine Governor Janet Mills and Senator Angus King have expressed gratitude and issued statements in honor of Veterans Day, recognizing the brave men and women who have served their country. Governor Mills pledged to work tirelessly to ensure that Maine always supports its veterans and military families, while Senator King emphasized the importance of honoring and supporting veterans, highlighting Maine's high percentage of citizens who have served in the armed forces. Both leaders expressed their commitment to serving those who have served America.
Maine Governor Janet Mills plans to establish an independent commission of experts to investigate the handling of previous concerns about the Lewiston mass shooting, including the months leading up to the incident and the police response. There were warnings about the shooter, Robert Card, from both the Army and his family, and law enforcement had made attempts to check on him prior to the killings. When confronted by reporters about the handling of these warnings, the governor referred to the ongoing investigation by state police. The commission will consist of independent experts with legal, investigative, and mental health backgrounds.
Governor Janet Mills announces that the body of Robert Card, the suspect in the Lewiston tragedy, has been found in Lisbon. She expresses gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts and assures the community that the investigation will continue to bring closure to the victims and their families. The governor acknowledges the relief felt by many but recognizes that Card's death may not bring solace to the victims. She emphasizes the resilience of the close-knit community of Lewiston and vows to support the healing process.
Governor Janet Mills of Maine issued a statement honoring Indigenous Peoples' Day and highlighting the historic progress made with the Wabanaki Nations during her administration. This progress includes establishing Indigenous Peoples' Day, signing significant tribal legislation, extending rights to the Mi'kmaq Nation, enshrining the Indian Child Welfare Act into state law, and providing more time for tribal nations to acquire land in trust. Other achievements include strengthening water quality standards for sustenance fishing, expanding tribal jurisdiction in domestic violence cases, returning culturally important land, and improving access to clean drinking water for the Passamaquoddy Tribe. Governor Mills has also increased tribal representation, prohibited Native American mascots in public schools, established commissions for racial and tribal populations, and granted a posthumous pardon for a deceased advocate for the Passamaquoddy Tribe.
Governor Janet Mills has declared a state of emergency in Maine in anticipation of Hurricane Lee, taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety and preparedness of the state.
Governor Janet Mills of Maine signed a budget bill that includes the introduction of the state's first paid family and medical leave program for the fiscal year 2024-25.
