Rep. Jack Ducharme discussed the financial challenges in Maine’s state government, focusing on the biennial budget and the anticipated revenue shortfalls. Despite passing a $11.3 billion biennial budget, a $120 million gap remains due to unfunded continuing services. Ducharme highlighted a $123 million shortfall in 2027 for MaineCare. Republicans have participated in discussions but emphasized the need for clear funding sources and priorities before committing to additional spending. Ducharme criticized the majority’s approach, noting a $156 million tax increase proposal would still leave a $85 million shortfall. He stressed the importance of bipartisan collaboration and transparency in budgeting.
Tropical Storms Karina and Lowell formed Thursday in the Pacific Ocean, both of which were expected to become hurricanes in the next few days, the National Hurricane Center said.
A new study suggests that El Ninos — the natural climatic chaos agent that pops up periodically and spikes global temperatures — are getting stronger because of human-caused climate change.
Two unvaccinated Pennsylvania residents have died after being infected with measles, the first U.S. deaths this year related to the contagious virus. State health officials announced the deaths Tuesday. They did not reveal any details about the people who died, other than that they lived in Lancaster County, west of Philadelphia.
