Democratic Gov. Janet Mills of Maine says she will call lawmakers back to the State House next Monday for a special session to consider four bond proposals totaling $163 million in borrowing for the November ballot.
Mills says her decision to call a special legislative session comes after consultation with legislative leaders.
“The proclamation asks them [lawmakers] to come in to talk about bonds. We’re still drafting the legislation to go with that,” she says. “Talking to leadership of both sides, … I am convinced there is support for a variety of bonds. We will be proposing four separate packages.”
The largest proposal is $105 million for transportation projects. A $23 million economic development bond would be primarily aimed at broadband expansion, with $4 million each for workforce development and modernizing National Guard facilities.
Mills is also proposing a $15 million environment and energy bond for pollution cleanup and energy efficiency loans. The fourth bond, $20 million, would go toward conservation projects under the Land for Maine’s future program.
Once in session, lawmakers can take up bills not included by the governor in her proclamation, but Democratic leaders say they will oppose efforts to introduce other matters.
Originally published Aug. 19, 2019 at 1:56 p.m. ET.
