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I am incensed that the Maine Legislature seemingly considers Maine voters — those who elected legislators to represent them — to be incapable of voting on replacing the Maine state flag in November, as was anticipated and, I believe, scheduled; instead, our Legislature would have us wait another two-and-a-half years while a “commission” of five select individuals contemplate what version of a state flag Maine is to have. What a colossal waste of time and energy, and what an insult to Maine voters!
I am dismayed that the “right to repair” law that was overwhelmingly approved by Maine voters (84 percent, as I recall) is now in the process of being eviscerated by the Legislature, which, if supposition proves to be correct, will render it totally useless, and we’ll be right back to dealers having virtual monopolies on technology in order to have our vehicles repaired.
A recent column in Bangor Daily News notes that “Legislation was written, signatures were gathered, and a citizen initiative made its way onto the November 2004 ballot” that “would have placed limits on the ability of municipalities to raise property taxes.” Though that initiative failed, An Act To Increase the State Share of Education Costs, Reduce Property Taxes, and Reduce Government Spending at All Levels, for which then-Reps. Janet Mills and Troy Jackson voted, was later signed into law by Gov. John Baldacci. That could now be repealed by LD 2102. It would repeal the limits on property taxes that were formulated in 2005 and enacted in 2006. I can’t believe the underhandedness with which this legislation passed, and the damaging effect I think it could have on both property owners and renters!
I am astounded, on all counts. I expected and expect better.
Michael P. Gleason
Bangor