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 HB18

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

ME SCR1611

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

ME HB13

(Constitutional Amendment) Increases the number of associate supreme court justices (Items #3 and #4) (OR +$1,145,641 GF EX See Note)

ME SJR502

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention proposing an amendment to the constitution fixing the number of justices of the United States Supreme Court at one chief justice and eight associate justices.

ME HR1060

Resolution; impeachment; Chief Justice of the Oklahoma Supreme Court; findings.

ME HCR12

Constitutional Amendment establishing the United States Supreme Court as 9 Justices

ME HB506

Constitutional amendment revising selection of supreme court justices

ME HB1

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides that the supreme court shall be composed of nine justices (Item #4) (OR +$1,145,641 GF EX See Note)

ME HJR140

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the membership of the State Commission on Judicial Conduct and the authority of the commission and the Texas Supreme Court to more effectively sanction judges and justices for judicial misconduct.

ME SJ0004

A JOINT RESOLUTION proposing to amend the Wyoming constitution to amend the composition and qualifications of the judicial nominating commission, to specify that the legislature may define the actual practice of law for purposes of qualifications for supreme court justices and to require persons selected for the office of justice of the supreme court to be confirmed by the senate.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.