House in Session [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a prayer by Reverend Donna Dahlem, followed by the national anthem performed by Sharon Hood. Guests were recognized, including Dr. Kevin Fickensher and others from the gallery. Administrative tasks included the reading and approval of the previous session's journal and a quorum call. House Bill 1491 and House Bill 1492 were introduced, both related to supplemental appropriations for state government operations for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, and were referred to their respective committees. A joint convention with the Senate was held to welcome Chief Justice Valerie Stanfield, who addressed the assembly. She emphasized the judiciary's role as a co-equal branch of government and discussed the need for adequate resources to ensure fair and timely access to justice. Staffing issues were highlighted, with a study indicating a need for 54 additional court clerk positions. The judicial branch has adopted new technology to manage caseloads, including e-filing systems and courtroom updates. The Chief Justice also mentioned the closure of the District Court Courthouse in Mattawaska and ongoing plans for new courthouse facilities. The backlog of cases is improving, particularly in civil cases, while family cases still face delays. A pilot project in Bangor aims to enhance the processing of criminal cases. The speaker provided an update on pending legal cases, noting a reduction from 1,150 cases without counsel to approximately 225 criminal cases, 30 child protective cases, and 30 appeals. Ongoing school outreach efforts were discussed, including oral arguments at high schools and plans for commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Concerns were raised about declining public trust in the justice system and threats to judicial independence. The speaker called for unity and civil discourse amid rising partisanship, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. Legislative business included discussions and votes on several bills, including an emergency measure for a sales tax exemption for off-site housing construction and a resolution honoring Charles "Charlie" Kirk, who was killed in an act of political violence. The resolution condemned political violence and called for respectful debate. Representatives shared reflections on Kirk's legacy and the importance of civil discourse. A representative from Blue Hill shared a personal account of surviving sexual violence, linking it to the need for accountability for victims. The meeting also included a moment of remembrance for the Honorable Jeff Evangelos and a celebration of a representative's seven years of sobriety. A representative commemorated Abraham Lincoln's birthday, and the Environmental Priorities Coalition announced a Lunch and Learn event on land conservation. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn until February 24, 2026.