Bill > LD849

This bill establishes a detailed process for recalling public school board members, specifying that such members can only be recalled under three specific circumstances: if they have been convicted of a serious crime during their term, failed to perform legally prescribed duties, or willfully misused public property or funds. Importantly, a board member cannot be recalled simply for their performance of required or discretionary duties. To initiate a recall, a petition must be signed by at least 25% of voters who participated in the last gubernatorial election in the relevant municipality or school administrative unit. The recall petition must include specific details about the reason for recall and can only be filed by registered voters in the area. If the petition is certified as having sufficient valid signatures, a recall election must be scheduled within 21 business days, with the election held 45-75 days later. For the recall to be successful, a majority of voters must participate, with the total ballots cast representing at least 35% of voters in the previous gubernatorial election. The bill also amends existing municipal recall statutes to explicitly exclude school board members, who will now be governed by this new, more specific recall process.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=849&snum=132