Maddy summaryThis bill creates a five-member advisory council to oversee a technical review and revision of Maine's Criminal Code and other criminal statutes. The council, which includes a prosecuting attorney, a defense attorney, a legal educator, a retired judge, and the Attorney General as chair, will hire an outside consultant to identify obsolete provisions, clarify confusing language, and reorganize the laws. Various state departments can submit recommendations to the council, which must reach a consensus on all decisions before making suggestions to the Legislature. The council is required to submit its final report and any proposed legislation by February 1, 2026, and the bill provides specific funding to cover the council's public member expenses and consulting services.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill amends a previous proposal to provide financial relief for volunteers in the Corporation for National and Community Service, Maine Service Fellows, and Maine Climate Corps programs. The key changes include updating the title to reflect that the relief is specifically for education benefits and adding a condition that the income tax subtraction applies only to the extent the benefits are included in federal adjusted gross income. Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $11,000 to fund administrative costs for implementing these tax changes.
Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Maine's cannabis tax structure by increasing the sales tax on adult-use cannabis while simultaneously reducing the excise tax over time. Under the new rules, the sales tax rate will rise to 12.5% starting January 1, 2025, and increase further to 15% on January 1, 2026. At the same time, the excise tax applied to these products will be cut by one-third during the 2025 tax year and reduced by two-thirds beginning in 2026. These changes directly affect cannabis retailers and consumers by altering the total tax burden on purchases made after January 1, 2025.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends a previous proposal to change its focus from immediately restoring firearm rights to first creating a plan for doing so. It directs the Commissioner of Public Safety to form a stakeholder group, including legal and safety experts, to design a petition process for people currently prohibited from owning guns. The group must submit a report by January 30, 2025, outlining the proposed process and any recommended laws needed to implement it. Ultimately, the bill does not restore rights itself but sets up a committee to develop the framework for future legislation.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution designates June 28, 2024, as Maine Acadian Day to honor the history and cultural contributions of Acadians and Franco-Americans in the state. The measure acknowledges the legacy of French settlers who established the first European community in Maine and endured the forced deportation of the Acadian people in the 18th century. By officially recognizing this date, the legislature aims to celebrate the significant role these communities play in Maine's heritage, particularly in the Saint John Valley region.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors Representative H. Sawin Millett, Jr. for his long career in public service as he retires from the Maine State Legislature. The bill recognizes his nearly 50 years of legislative work, during which he served multiple terms and held leadership roles on committees focused on finances, government oversight, and education. It also highlights his diverse background in teaching, farming, and various state administrative positions under several governors. The resolution expresses appreciation for his dedication and expertise but does not change any laws or policies.