Action Under the Dome for Monday, May 10

Monday, May 10, 2021
Jen Lancaster

We're one day late, but happy Mother's Day! It's not always an easy holiday to handle for those who have dealt with loss or have strenuous relationships with their parents. Here's a shoutout to all the mothers out there, including step moms, single-parent moms, and adopted moms. We're rooting for you.

NEWS:

Voting-rights advocates stage rally, motorcade in Portland
Shenna Bellows, Maine's secretary of state, joins members of the League of Women Voters of Maine and other groups to support federal voting rights legislation.

Rally public support for the National Popular Vote (NPV): Next Tuesday, May 11 at 9 AM, there will be a public hearing in the Veterans & Legal Affairs Committee on two NPV bills (LD 1330 and LD 1384). These two bills are not the League's NPV bill, to be sponsored by Senator Troy Jackson. We are still watching for Senator Troy Jackson’s bill to be printed. However, this is one key moment to show our legislators that Mainers want the National Popular Vote. Learn more and take action

One step closer to law: We're pleased to announce that the bill, An Act Regarding Campaign Finance Reform (LD 1417), passed out of the VLA Committee last week. This bill will have to pass in the Maine State House and State Senate before it becomes law. 

Third time's the charm: An Act To Require Election Transparency and Audits (LD 1155) also passed out of the Committee. We’re still awaiting the final committee report, but we’re expecting a favorable, bipartisan vote. This is the third time we’ve introduced this bill, and we’re hoping this may be the year it passes. We’re especially grateful for the support from sponsor Rep. Grohoski and from the office of the Secretary of State.

What comes next: The Maine Legislature had blocked off May 12 and 13 to convene again, but that plan got cancelled. They may try again the week after, and some of our high priority bills may be up for a vote at that time. See the full legislative calendar here.

WHAT THE LEAGUE IS WORKING ON:

CONVENTION 2021 — FRIDAY, MAY 14 & SATURDAY, MAY 15: Convention packets have started to arrive in the mail. To make sure that your packet arrives on time, don't wait to register! Save your spot now, and we'll get your swag in the mail. Learn more and register for Convention here