The 131st Legislature held a “Veto Day” and concluded its business on May 10. The general effective date for nonemergency laws passed in the Second Regular Session is Friday, August 9, 2024.The session end included much drama within the Democratic caucus and with Governor Mills. Republicans were there to act on the bills vetoed by Governor Mills.
Veto Day is traditionally limited to consideration of bills that have been vetoed by the Governor. Her decision to prevent bills from becoming law can only be reversed with a two-thirds vote of the legislature.
This year, legislative Democrats attempted to take up dozens of additional items despite warning from Governor Mills. The Governor’s concerns fell largely into two categories, violation of the constitutional process and the long-term fiscal impact of additional spending on the state budget.
After a standoff that lasted several hours into the evening, the legislature adjourned after passing 35 additional bills that will not become law because of the flawed process that was used to pass them. Many have great merit and would have been positive had they been acted on months and weeks ago by majority Democrats.
Instead time was wasted by Appropriations Committee Democrats trying to take pension money away from retirees and the transportation budget in order to spend more money on other priorities not shared by the Governor and legislature as a whole. I am relieved that their efforts failed, with the exception of $11 million taken from the transportation budget. With the missing federal match, there will be roughly $33 million less that Maine DOT to spend on our roads and bridges.
I hope that everyone has an enjoyable summer. I am available if you have any questions about what the legislature did or didn’t do this past session. Expect a district-wide report in the mail later this summer.
Even though the Legislature has adjourned, I am still busy doing constituent work. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance with state matters. I can be reached at Jim.Thorne@legislature.maine.gov or call 207 287-1440.
Thank you for the opportunity to represent you in the Maine House. I love hearing your thoughts and concerns, and appreciate your input!
Sincerely, Rep. Jim Thorne