AUGUSTA, Maine – Lawmakers in Maine are preparing to return to work at the state House, with the primary focus on honoring the victims of the deadliest mass shooting in the state’s history. The upcoming session is expected to set the stage for addressing various gun safety proposals following the Lewiston shooting.
The Maine Gun Safety Coalition is planning a demonstration in the Hall of Flags to show support for the victims and their families. Among the proposals to be addressed is a potential revision to the state’s yellow flag law, which allows judges to remove guns from those in mental health crises.
Lawmakers are also planning to consider bills carried over from the previous session. These include proposals to grant greater sovereignty to Native American tribes in the state, as well as amendments to the Maine Constitution to guarantee the right to an abortion. In addition, they will need to address a supplemental budget expected to exceed $100 million.
A request by State Rep. John Andrews to impeach Secretary of State Shenna Bellows is also on the agenda. However, it remains unclear how this process will unfold in the Democratic-controlled Legislature.
The sessions are set to commence on Jan. 3, 2024, and will provide an opportunity for lawmakers to prioritize gun safety and address key issues facing the state. Honoring the victims of the Lewiston shooting is a significant step as they come together to deliberate on crucial legislative matters.