Press Herald
- Regulators dismissed Central Maine Power Co.’s proposal to increase rates over a 5-year period Tuesday and are calling on the utility to file a new plan in the near future. Rates for consumers will still likely go up, but the structure and timeline of CMP’s controversial plan to fund infrastructure improvements and new hires could change significantly. The utility had requested permission to incrementally increase its distribution rates over a 5-year period, starting in 2026. The average household’s bill would rise about $35 a month under that proposal. At the Public Utilities Commission’s regular meeting Tuesday morning, Chair Philip L. Bartlett II said the plan comes as Mainers already face rising costs and an uncertain economic future.
- Maine House Minority Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham said he’s considering a run for higher office. The lobsterman from Winter Harbor didn’t indicate which office he was considering, and when reached by a reporter Monday only reiterated that he would make an announcement soon. The Hancock County lobsterman rose to power in 2022 with his working class background and populist appeal.
- State Rep. Laurel Libby, an Auburn Republican who has risen to prominence for her fundraising prowess and forceful criticism of transgender girls competing in sports, announced Monday that she will not seek reelection or run for higher office next year. Instead, Libby will launch a network of organizations focused on educating and mobilizing conservatives ahead of the 2026 elections, including helping reelect U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.
- Maine could lose $13.5 million in housing assistance funds, putting more than 1,200 people currently in stable housing at risk, under new directives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Gov. Janet Mills said the change is expected to increase demand for General Assistance, a state program that helps people with no other means afford rent and basic necessities, and for beds in emergency shelters.
- Portland’s Not A Bakery makes Eater’s list of the country’s 5 best bakeries
- Maine Human Rights Commission suing school districts over transgender policies
- Cumberland County leaders reject proposal to end jail contract with ICE
Falmouth police are investigating an armed robbery at the town's Walmart..