Gambling, Tobacco Groups Among Top Spenders On Lobbying

AUGUSTA, Maine - New lobbying reports show that gambling, tobacco and groups are among the top spenders on lobbying so far this session in Maine.The Associated Press's review of such reports finds over 160 companies, industry groups and advocacy organizations reported spending nearly $360,000 on lobbying Maine state officials in December and January. Lobbyists reported $2.7 million in compensation in 2018. That's compared with $3.2 million in 2008. The spending comes as Democrats with newfound control over both the Senate and House are starting to consider hundreds of bills ranging from e-cigarettes restrictions to rural broadband efforts to paid sick leave to sports betting. Lawmakers also face Democratic Gov. Janet Mills' $8 billion, two-year budget proposal and the roll-out of recreational marijuana sales and Medicaid expansion.