AUGUSTA, Maine – Lawmakers in Maine are returning to the state House with a clear priority: honoring the victims of the deadliest mass shooting in the state’s history. The session will kick off with a tribute to the victims of the Lewiston shooting and will set the stage for addressing various gun safety proposals. The Maine Gun Safety Coalition is also planning a demonstration in support of the victims and their families.
The upcoming session will include discussions on several gun safety proposals, including potential changes to the state’s yellow flag law, which empowers judges to remove guns from individuals in a mental health crisis. The Maine Gun Safety Coalition is planning a demonstration in the Hall of Flags to show support for the victims and their families.
In addition to the focus on gun safety, State Rep. John Andrews is pushing for the impeachment of Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, who denied former President Donald Trump a spot on the state’s primary ballot over his role in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. It remains to be seen how the impeachment process will play out in the Democratic-controlled Legislature.
The agenda also includes the consideration of bills carried over from the last session, including proposals to grant greater sovereignty to Native American tribes in the state and to amend the Maine Constitution to enshrine the right to an abortion, along with a supplemental budget expected to top $100 million.
The session is expected to be a critical moment in addressing key issues facing the state, from gun safety to tribal sovereignty and the right to abortion. Lawmakers are aiming to take significant steps in response to recent events and to address longstanding challenges.