Bill > LD1668

This bill modifies the voting requirement for extending the length of a legislative session in Maine. Currently, extending a legislative session beyond its statutory adjournment date requires a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting in each legislative chamber. The proposed changes would lower this threshold to a simple majority vote, making it easier for the Legislature to extend its session in cases of emergency. Specifically, the bill allows the Legislature to extend the first regular session (which typically runs until the third Wednesday in June) or the second regular session (which typically runs until the third Wednesday in April) by up to 5 legislative days with a majority vote, instead of the previous two-thirds requirement. The bill also maintains the existing provision that allows for an additional legislative day to consider potential gubernatorial objections to bills. By reducing the voting threshold, the bill makes it procedurally simpler for legislators to continue their work if unexpected circumstances arise during a legislative session.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1668&snum=132