PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Attorneys who contend a referendum on a $1 billion hydropower transmission project is unconstitutional are asking a Superior Court judge to remove the question from the November ballot.

The lawsuit contends the Maine Constitution links referendums to legislative acts, not agency decisions. It also contends the referendum violates the constitution’s separation of powers.

The secretary of state agrees on the constitutional issue but suggested keeping the matter on the ballot as an advisory referendum. The referendum was originally envisioned as giving voters the final say on the New England Clean Energy Connect.

The judge heard arguments Wednesday and intends to rule next week.