AUGUSTA, Maine – Lawmakers in Maine are returning to the state House with an urgent and heavy agenda following the deadliest mass shooting in the state’s history. The legislature’s first task is to honor the victims, survivors, and first responders of the mass shooting in Lewiston.
In addition to paying tribute to the victims, the legislative session will also include discussions on several gun safety proposals. This includes potential changes to Maine’s “yellow flag law,” which allows a judge to remove guns from someone in a mental health crisis. The Maine Gun Safety Coalition is planning a demonstration in the Hall of Flags to show support for victims and their families.
State Rep. John Andrews has also requested the impeachment of Secretary of State Shenna Bellows over her decision to deny former President Donald Trump a spot on the state’s primary ballot. The impeachment process in the Democratic-controlled Legislature remains unclear.
Furthermore, lawmakers will be considering bills carried over from the previous session, including a proposal to give greater sovereignty to Native American tribes in the state and another to amend the Maine Constitution to enshrine the right to an abortion. There is also the matter of handling a supplemental budget expected to exceed $100 million.
As the legislature reconvenes, the focus will be on addressing the aftermath of the tragic mass shooting, considering gun safety proposals, and navigating through a packed agenda of bills and budgetary decisions.