Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill SP0099

Introduced
1/14/25  

Caption

Joint Order, to Amend Joint Rule 214 to Require Approval of Memorials if Submitted After Cloture

Impact

The amendment proposed in SP0099 is expected to modify existing protocols regarding how memorials, which are often used to express sentiments or positions on various issues, can be put forth in the legislature. This alteration could have implications for legislative efficiency and transparency, as it seeks to prevent backlogs or confusion regarding memorial submissions that occur close to the end of legislative sessions. By tightening the rules, supporters argue that it will create a more orderly legislative process, while opponents may see it as an additional bureaucratic hurdle.

Summary

SP0099 introduces an amendment to Joint Rule 214 concerning the introduction of memorials in legislative proceedings. The essential adjustment stipulates that a memorial submitted after the point of cloture will require additional approval from the Legislative Council, thereby establishing stricter guidelines for introducing memorials. This change aims to streamline legislative processes and ensure clarified procedures concerning memorial submissions, reflecting a more regulated approach to legislative documentation.

Sentiment

Discussions around SP0099 reveal mixed sentiments. Proponents view the bill favorably, believing it enhances the governing frameworks by ensuring that the introduction of memorials is managed properly within the legislative context. On the contrary, some critics may perceive the increased regulatory demands as potentially stifling the ability of lawmakers to respond quickly to emerging issues through memorials. Overall, sentiment surrounding SP0099 seems to align with a desire for greater structure rather than freedom in the legislative process.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from concerns about the implications of imposing stricter controls on the introduction of memorials. Critics argue that it may impede timely responses to urgent matters that require memorials, reducing the flexibility and responsiveness of legislative actions. While supporters assert that the amendment promotes essential discipline in the legislative process, opponents may fear that necessary discourse and representation of critical issues could be jeopardized under the new rules outlined in SP0099.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME SP0011

Joint Order, To Amend the Joint Rules to Eliminate Cloture for Legislators in a First Regular Session

ME HP0053

Joint Order, to Amend the Joint Rules to Remove the Requirement of Approval by the Presiding Officers or the Legislative Council for Submission of Resolutions

ME HP0007

Joint Order, to Amend the Joint Rule Regarding Fiscal Notes

ME SP0009

Joint Order, to Amend the Joint Rules to Require a Simple Majority to Call a United States Constitutional Convention

ME SP0001

Joint Order, to Adopt the Joint Rules of the 131st Legislature with Changes

ME SP0010

Joint Order, to Eliminate Concept Drafts

ME SP0937

Joint Order, Requiring Suggested Committee Amendments to Concept Drafts to Be Filed Before Their Committee Hearings

ME SP0992

Joint Order to Amend the Joint Order Establishing the Joint Select Committee on Housing to Extend the Committee Through the End of the 131st Legislature

ME HP0003

Joint Order, Establishing the Joint Select Committee on Housing

ME HP1474

Joint Order, to Require the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services to Study the Use of the Federal Vaccine Safety Monitoring System

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.