Bill > LD132

This bill establishes the Commission to Study the Constitution of Maine, a 12-member body designed to comprehensively review and potentially recommend updates to the state's constitution. The commission will include four senators, four representatives (with balanced party representation), a constitutional law scholar, a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe, a civil liberties organization representative, and the Secretary of State. The commission is authorized to meet up to 12 times and will explore potential constitutional changes such as strengthening the Declaration of Rights, removing procedural details better suited for statutes, enabling popular election of constitutional officers, establishing 4-year Senate terms, reducing legislative membership, creating a unicameral legislature, and allowing direct citizen-initiated constitutional amendments. The commission must submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations to the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary by November 4, 2026, and that committee may then propose legislation or constitutional amendments to the 133rd Legislature in 2027. The bill provides for legislative staff support and establishes a structured process for appointing members and conducting the constitutional review.

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https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=132&snum=132