Panel signs off on budget that includes $850 payments

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) The Maine Legislature’s appropriations committee unanimously approved a supplemental budget early Friday that includes $850 payouts to more than 850,000 residents amid inflationary worries.

Bill to address housing crisis advances in Maine Legislature

The Maine Senate gave its approval Friday to a proposal to boost affordable housing through zoning reform amid a housing shortage that lawmakers fear could hamper economic growth.

Explosion and fire caused by gas leak at Waldo County home leaves 3 people dead

Three people have died as a result of an explosion and fire in Montville.

Portland International Jetport to close primary runway as upgrades get underway

The Portland Jetport says it’s temporarily closing its primary runway starting next week.

Maine proposal to let tribe regulate drinking water advances

(AP) The Maine Senate on Wednesday joined the House in voting to give the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point the right to regulate its own drinking water following years of complaints about water quality.

Maine looks to improve heating assistance program

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine might make it easier for residents to access heating assistance.

MDEA says Thomaston woman sold cocaine laced with fentanyl that caused overdose

Drug agents say a Thomaston woman is accused of supplying cocaine laced with fentanyl to a person who overdosed.

Mainers reluctant to update licenses or IDs in accordance with new federal guidelines

Mainers could have a difficult time boarding airplanes a year from now.

Maine to end pooled coronavirus testing for classrooms next month

The governor’s administration says the state’s pooled coronavirus testing program for Maine classrooms will come to an end in May.

Plan for Maine Space Corporation to boost industry approved

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) The Maine Legislature has approved a proposal to create a public-private partnership to help grow the state’s aerospace industry.