Governor Janet Mills announced she will allow most of the bills from last legislative session to become law. Out of 61 bills, 52 will be enacted. However, she has vetoed one bill, LD 1228, which aimed to clarify the “Right to Repair” laws for automotive services. She feels this bill would negatively impact local auto repair shops and diverges from the wishes of Maine voters who supported the “Right to Repair” referendum earlier this year.
The Governor’s decision comes after a thorough review of the held bills, a responsibility she takes seriously. She emphasized that each law affects the lives of Maine residents, businesses, and the economy.
Maine’s laws state that after the Legislature adjourns, the Governor has ten days to act on new bills. If she doesn’t sign a bill during this time, she can either let it pass into law after three days of the next session or veto it. This means the laws that will go into effect are set to activate 90 days after the next session ends unless labeled as emergencies, which can become active sooner.
Mills noted the hard work of the Legislature in passing these bills. As she prepares for her final legislative session, the Governor looks forward to working collaboratively to benefit the state further.
Additionally, discussions around the “Right to Repair” laws resonate beyond just Maine. A 2022 survey by the Consumer Technology Association showed that 78% of Americans support legislation that would allow consumers to repair their own devices, highlighting a growing national sentiment towards repair rights and local business support.
The following bills are set to become law, alongside those that have been recalled for further consideration:
- Passed (Law Without Signature): Bills 15, 46, 61, and others.
- Vetoed: Bill 1228.
- Recalled for Further Discussion: Bills 338, 522, and others.
These decisions reflect a significant moment in Maine’s legislative history, demonstrating how local laws can adapt to the evolving needs of communities.
