Maine lawmakers continue budget discussions amid party tensions

Maine lawmakers are starting a new phase of budget work amid ongoing tensions. Republican leaders have called for reforms to MaineCare and oppose any tax increases. This comes after a recent partisan struggle over a $11.3 billion budget that sets government spending for the next two years. At a news conference, Republicans criticized the budget for being unbalanced, citing over $100 million in expected MaineCare costs not included for fiscal year 2027. Democrats defended the budget, stating it provides a baseline for MaineCare funding and will require adjustments as needed in the future. The second phase of budget discussions aims to address new initiatives. Governor Janet Mills called a special legislative session to expedite the budget timeline. If it had passed with a two-thirds bipartisan majority, it could have taken effect immediately. Republicans have submitted paperwork for a people's veto of the budget. They argue that tax increases could be proposed in the next phase and feel excluded from the budget discussions. They have until June 19 to collect enough signatures from voters to place the veto on the ballot. In related news, Republicans attempted to lift a censure on Representative Laurel Libby, who was penalized for a social media post regarding transgender athletes. The motion failed again. Speaker Ryan Fecteau said Libby would regain her privileges if she apologized, which she has not indicated she will do. She is challenging the censure in federal court.