Press Herald - A new gun safety law that was pushed by advocates in the aftermath of the 2023 Lewiston mass shooting takes effect Saturday. The so-called red flag law was approved by voters 63% to 37% in November following a referendum campaign. The law makes Maine one of 22 states that allow authorities to temporarily remove weapons from people who pose a risk to themselves or others.
The Portland City Council will decide Monday whether to extend a moratorium on large concert venues for another six months as officials consider ordinance changes that could block a proposed 3,300-seat music hall downtown. The Portland Music Hall – proposed by Mile Marker Investments and Live Nation – would be built next to Merrill Auditorium, but it has drawn strong opposition from Portland’s music community.
Some Kennebunkport business owners and residents are raising concerns about town discussions that could lead to new restrictions on tour buses. Visitors to Maine’s Beaches region — which includes Kennebunkport — spent $2.5 billion in 2024. While some locals say traffic and safety issues have gotten out of hand, businesses that rely on tourism fear additional restrictions will drive customers away.