Maine Senate confirms multiple nominations, passes emergency measures and enacts bills to be presented to governor

The Maine Senate spent the day handling a series of confirmations, committee reports and emergency measures. Among the formal actions, the chamber confirmed reappointments and appointments to state boards and approved several emergency enactments to be presented to the governor.

Nominations confirmed on the floor included Matthew C. Colpitts of Winthrop and Rebecca M. Wyke of Augusta for reappointment to the Maine Retirement Savings Board; William Benson of Gorham for appointment to the Maine Turnpike Authority Board of Directors; and the reappointments of Jane Lincoln of Farmingdale and Thomas Zukovsako to the Turnpike Authority board. The Clerk read committee recommendations and the Senate accepted those recommendations on the floor.

The Senate also passed several emergency measures and resolves, which the Chair announced had secured the required two-thirds affirmative vote for enactment. One item presented as an emergency measure would exempt certain leased automobiles used by eligible veterans from the motor vehicle excise tax; the Secretary was directed to present the enacted bills and resolves to the Governor for approval.

Committee business included multiple 'ought to pass' and 'ought not to pass' reports returned to the floor; several such reports were adopted in concurrence after roll-call votes ordered by members. The chamber also set aside multiple calendar items to accommodate guest recognitions and manage the schedule.

The Senate adjourned for the day and scheduled its next sitting for Tuesday, March 17, at 10 a.m., or at the call of legislative leadership.