Our Advocacy Committee met after a brief summer hiatus, and we're considering which bills we want to pursue in the 2022 session. Cloture is September 24 — that’s the deadline for submitting new bills to be considered in the second session. After such a successful 2021 session, we're buzzing with excitement for what comes next.
NEWS:
The Census Update + Redistricting: Census data needed to draw maps has been released! This impacts how your community is represented in government for the next 10 years. Participating in public hearings and offering testimony about your community helps ensure that maps drawn are truly representative. The Apportionment Commission's next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 18 at 9:30 AM. Follow the Maine Commission's proceedings here.
For The People Up + Next Steps: Last week, the U.S. Senate was poised to vote on the The For The People Act (S. 1/S. 2093) and advance this crucial legislation, but unfortunately, the bill was blocked. The Senate will continue to consider the bill and will try to vote again in September. In the meantime, urge Senators Angus King and Susan Collins to pass S1. Show them that Mainers want to clean up our political system, get big money out of politics, hold elected officials accountable, and expand and protect voting rights. Use our quick form to send the senators a message here: www.lwvme.org/S1.
The November 2 Election + Planning Ahead: Mainers can now apply for their absentee ballot or an accessible ballot through the Secretary of State's website. Just click here. All ballots must be received by 8:00 PM on Election Day. At the state level, the November election will be a Referendum Election featuring three questions. No state or federal candidates will be on the ballot. Candidate races may be contested at the local level. Ballot and candidate information will be available on Vote411.org early fall.
WHAT THE LEAGUE IS WORKING ON:
Upcoming tabling events. Volunteer with us for two- or three-hour shifts this summer. We're tabling to register voters and educate about our advocacy work. Next volunteer opportunity:
Wells Chili-Fest
Saturday, August 24
Click here to sign up!