Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD2015

Introduced
6/22/23  
Engrossed
6/22/23  
Enrolled
6/23/23  

Caption

Resolve, Approving the 2023 Draft and Arrangement of the Constitution of Maine Made by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court and Providing for Its Publication and Distribution

Impact

The approval of LD2015 not only updates the formatting and presentation of the Constitution but also aims to enhance public access to critical legal documents that govern the state. By directing the Secretary of State to publish the newly arranged Constitution, the bill supports transparency and public engagement with the state's legal framework. The resolution emphasizes the importance of making this foundational document readily available, which aligns with the principles of democratic governance and accountability.

Summary

LD2015 is a resolution approving the 2023 Draft and Arrangement of the Constitution of Maine, prepared by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court. The legislation aims to authorize the preparation and distribution of the updated constitutional document, ensuring that it is made accessible to the public. This move is characterized by an emergency preamble, suggesting the urgent necessity of the recodified Constitution to be available before the standard waiting period following legislative approval.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around LD2015 appears positive, focusing on the importance of maintaining an up-to-date and accessible legal framework. Supporters express confidence that the updates will facilitate better understanding among citizens regarding their rights and responsibilities as defined by the Constitution. The proactive approach in addressing the pubishing logistics reflects a commitment to improving state governance and legal clarity.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for the resolution, the immediate need for such an update might raise questions about the adequacy of previous arrangements of the Constitution or the processes in place for maintaining legal documents. Critics may voice concerns over the implications of revising such significant texts without broader public dialogue. Nevertheless, the bill's intent to streamline and modernize the presentation of the Constitution is a notable point of focus.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD2291

Resolve, Approving the 2024 Draft and Arrangement of the Constitution of Maine Incorporating Amendments Approved at Referendum in 2023 and Providing for Its Publication and Distribution

ME LD2196

Resolve, to Authorize the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to Arrange the Constitution of Maine to Incorporate Amendments Approved at the November 2023 Referendum

ME HB533

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the appointment of justices of the supreme court

ME SCR1611

Proposing a constitutional amendment to provide for direct election of supreme court justices and abolish the supreme court nominating commission.

ME JRS016

Joint resolution providing for a Joint Assembly to vote on the retention of a Chief Justice and four Associate Justices of the Supreme Court and eight Superior Court Judges

ME HCR237

Requests the Judicial Council of the Supreme Court of La. to include justice of the peace courts in its study of the judiciary following the 2010 federal decennial census

ME HB506

Constitutional amendment revising selection of supreme court justices

ME SB178

Constitutional amendment to provide for statewide districts and election of the chief justice for the Louisiana Supreme Court. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

ME HJR1001

A Constitutional Amendment Concerning The Salaries Of Elected Constitutional Officers Of The Executive Department, Members Of The General Assembly, Supreme Court Justices, Court Of Appeals Judges, And Prosecuting Attorneys.

ME HB18

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the statewide election of supreme court justices (Item #4)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.