Dear John, Sunny spring weather is here and the 2024 Legislative Session is nearing its end! We’re excited to share news from the State House, as well as upcoming events and opportunities to take action. Thank you for all you do! – Beth |
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Reporting back on Conservation Lobby Day 2024 |
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On Wednesday, April 10, we gathered with our partners in Maine’s Environmental Priorities Coalition (EPC) and about 35 volunteers in Augusta for Conservation Lobby Day!
The day started with a lobby training – thank you to Rep. Bill Pluecker for joining us for this part of the program! We next heard from Senator Peggy Rotundo and Representative Melanie Sachs, chairs of the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, about the process of funding bills. |
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Then, we filled the halls of the State House with support for important environmental policies that have received legislative support – but are stuck in limbo until we see whether they receive the funding they need.
Click here to watch video highlights from the day.
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A step forward for Wabanaki Self-Determination |
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An amended version of the Tribal Self-Determination bill was enacted in both legislative chambers and now is on the Governor’s desk, where we believe she will sign the bill into law.
LD 2007, now titled, An Act Regarding the Criminal Jurisdiction of Tribal Courts and to Extend the Time for the Penobscot Nation to Certify its Agreement to Public Law 2023, aims to grant Wabanaki Nations – specifically the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation – expanded powers for their respective courts. This bill adopts fundamental federal Indian law related to tribal court jurisdiction, recognizing tribal authority over regulating drinking water and restoring rights stripped by past legislation.
By bolstering tribal courts and granting jurisdiction over certain crimes, LD 2007 addresses the tribal drug epidemic and promotes self-governance and cooperation between tribal and state justice systems. Though a small step forward, it reflects collaborative efforts involving leaders of the Wabanaki Nations, state officials, and bipartisan cosponsors and addresses crucial needs within Wabanaki communities. |
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On Monday, the bill to support a National Popular Vote (LD 1578) became law in Maine!
LD 1578 has Maine join 17 states already enrolled in the National Popular Vote Compact. States in the interstate agreement commit to allocating their Electoral College votes to the candidate who wins the most votes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The Compact will go into effect when it has been enacted by states that collectively hold a majority of the electoral vote, or 270 of the 538 electoral votes.
Read more from the League of Women Voters here.
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And a setback for clean cars… |
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Maine’s 2021 Clean Transportation Roadmap called for adoption of Advanced Clean Cars II standards to gradually ramp up adoption of zero-emission vehicles and reduce emissions from our most polluting sector.
Last month, the Bureau of Environmental Protection (BEP) rejected the standards, setting Maine back on the path to zero emissions and cleaner air. Stay tuned, though – we plan to continue advocating for electric vehicles and climate action!
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Clean up Old Orchard Beach with us on Earth Day! |
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Our great group of volunteers last year, on Earth Day 2023! |
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Join us at the Summit on Maine’s Economy & Climate Change |
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I hope you’ll join us at the Summit on Maine’s Economy & Climate Change! We’re excited to partner with ClimateWork Maine to offer discounted tickets for the event on Thursday, May 9, from 8 AM - 5 PM at the Augusta Civic Center. |
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Through panel discussions on topics from climate migration to electric grid modernization, you’ll hear from business and environmental leaders, climate experts, policymakers and more about how climate change will re-shape Maine’s economy. The Summit brings together industry experts, thought leaders, and passionate individuals like yourself, all committed to finding innovative solutions.
Use the promo code MAINECONSERVATIONVOTERS for discounted registration! |
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Help bolster clean elections |
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The legislative session is ending – and the 2024 elections are fast approaching! Maine’s Clean Elections law allows candidates to campaign without relying on private money and wealthy sources – and instead focus their energy on connecting directly with voters like you. Learn more about Clean Elections here.
Candidates who choose to participate in the voluntary program must collect enough $5 donations by April 22 to qualify for Clean Elections and receive an equal, limited amount of public funding for their campaigns. If you have a preferred candidate, click here to make a $5 donation to make it possible for them to run a clean election and support our democracy.
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Maine Conservation Voters
295 Water St.
Ste. 9
Augusta, ME 04330
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