State and federal governments will feel the pinch of increasing debt well into the future.
Politics
As more people enroll in MaineCare, they may face fewer options for care
Maine lags behind other states in how much it reimburses health facilities for treating its lowest-income residents. Without change, providers fear they can’t afford to continue.
Even with a safe seat until 2026, Collins showed courage in voting against Trump
In the second impeachment trial of Donald Trump, Susan Collins broke with many of her Republican colleagues who failed to show their own profiles in courage.
Republicans searching for ways to regain power after changing electorate boosts Democrats
The insurrection and impeachment trial are results of GOP failures to acknowledge the progress Democrats have made.
It takes two to tango, and Republicans must be willing to dance
President Biden’s plans for unity will be tested unless the GOP backs off take-it-or-leave-it politics.
Temporary public defense director selected amid major reform, barebone budget
On the same day the Maine Commission on Indigent Legal Services selected a new interim director, Gov. Janet Mills’ $8.4 billion budget excluded funds for public defense reforms that lawmakers say are needed.
Maine’s public defense agency acknowledges it didn’t enforce rules on attorney qualifications
The Maine Commission on Indigent Legal Services is nearing a vote on a sweeping overhaul of requirements for attorneys who represent the poor. Members were stunned to learn existing rules for protective custody cases have not been enforced for nearly a decade.
State budget to take center stage during 2021 legislative session
GOP to look for ways to reassert legislative power while Democrats eye health care and climate change.
Courthouse statue has Kennebec County officials searching for an answer
Melville Fuller, a Maine native, rose to become chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, but an 1896 decision leaves some wondering whether honoring him on courthouse grounds is proper.
Building a renewable future poses daunting task for Maine
To achieve the legislated goal of decarbonizing Maine by 2050, the state must dramatically expand renewable power generation and transmission. Overcoming negative public opinion in the wake of the Hydro-Quebec corridor debate is just one obstacle in the way.
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