Bill > LD1008

This bill introduces a new process for the Attorney General to seek legislative approval before filing civil lawsuits on behalf of the State and establishes a citizen-initiated review mechanism. Under the proposed legislation, the Attorney General must first prepare and present a proposal to the legislative judiciary committee requesting approval to file a civil suit in state or federal court. The committee can then report out legislation to authorize the lawsuit, and the full Legislature must approve the request by a majority vote and obtain the Governor's signature. Additionally, the bill allows any registered voter in the State to submit a petition to request the dismissal of a civil suit filed by the Attorney General. If a petition gathers 500 valid signatures within one year, the Attorney General must move to dismiss the case. The bill also provides for the Legislature and its committees to meet during interim periods specifically to review and process the Attorney General's requests for lawsuit approval, ensuring flexibility in the legislative review process. Key terms like "civil suit" refer to legal proceedings seeking monetary damages or other non-criminal remedies, and the bill aims to increase legislative and public oversight of the Attorney General's litigation activities.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1008&snum=132