Sen. Craig Hickman

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Maine nonprofit organizations to operate electronic "Lucky Seven" devices for fundraising, replacing physical sealed-ticket games. It defines these devices as machines that display virtual tickets (not dispensing cash) and requires nonprofits to obtain licenses from the Gambling Control Unit ($200 per game, $50 per device annually). The law specifically allows these electronic games to be used during fundraising events, with operators required to be 18+ and display valid licenses. It directly affects nonprofits that currently use physical "Lucky Seven" or similar sealed-ticket games for charitable fundraising.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends existing laws to prevent creditors from placing liens on a person's primary home for unpaid medical bills. It also stops courts from collecting interest that accumulates on medical debt after the law takes effect. These protections apply to individuals whose homes are being targeted for medical debt collection and limit how much interest can be added to such debts. The legislation aims to shield homeowners from losing their residences due to medical expenses and reduce the financial burden of interest on unpaid medical bills.

Maddy summaryThis bill would ban online sweepstakes games in Maine that simulate casino-style gaming like slots, poker, and sports betting using a dual-currency payment system. The law defines these games as those accessible on the internet or mobile devices that require players to purchase or earn virtual currency that can be exchanged for cash prizes or the chance to win them. Operators or promoters of such games would face civil fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, and any existing gambling licenses held by violators would be revoked. Fines collected from violations would be directed to a fund dedicated to gambling addiction prevention and treatment. The bill also updates legal definitions to include new internet gaming licenses and aligns the statute with recent state law changes.

Maddy summaryLD 1343 defines the term "harvest" in Maine's marine and inland fisheries/wildlife laws to clarify that it includes gathering, hunting, fishing, or trapping for food, sport, management, or population control. The bill declares that Maine residents have the right to harvest wildlife through hunting, fishing, or trapping, as recognized in the state constitution. This right is subject to existing state laws, rules, and regulations enforced by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The bill does not create new hunting or fishing rights but formally defines the term "harvest" to align with current practices and constitutional protections.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Maine's campaign finance laws to update reporting requirements and thresholds for candidates and political committees. It lowers the financial transaction threshold that triggers mandatory reporting from $2,000 to $1,500 for certain offices and clarifies that party committees must disclose specific details about their expenditures, including the purpose and payee information. The legislation also adjusts the definition of ballot question committees to exclude party committees and extends the qualifying period for candidates seeking Maine Clean Election Act certification in 2026. These changes affect candidates, political party committees, and independent expenditure groups by modifying how and when they must report financial activities to the state ethics commission.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends a resolution to create a working group focused on improving wellness and mental health resources for workers in Maine's heritage industries. The amendment clarifies that the group will include a representative from logging specifically, and expands the group's responsibilities to address primary care access, challenges faced by migrant workers, and support for individuals with serious brain disorders or traumatic brain injuries. These changes aim to ensure the working group considers a broader range of workforce needs and specific health concerns within the industry.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Governor to appoint Maine's Director of Cannabis Policy, but the appointment must be reviewed by the joint standing committee overseeing cannabis matters and confirmed by the full Legislature. The Governor must make this appointment within 60 days of the bill taking effect. This change directly affects the Governor's appointment authority and increases legislative oversight for a key position managing cannabis policy. The bill does not alter the duties of the Office of Cannabis Policy or its relationship with the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Maine's land use laws to clarify that housing for migrant or seasonal farm workers on land used for farming is **not excluded** from the definition of "subdivision." Previously, agricultural leases (including farm worker housing) might have been exempt from subdivision regulations. The change means such housing must now comply with standard subdivision planning and land use requirements. This directly affects developers and landowners building housing for farm workers on agricultural land, requiring them to follow subdivision permitting processes.

Maddy summaryLD 1814 requires individuals specifically hired to influence state government contract awards (competitive bidding) to register with a state commission and submit detailed monthly reports. It directly affects professional lobbyists and consultants working on state procurement contracts. Key provisions mandate registration within 10 days including employer details, compensation, past bids, and a public website listing all registered individuals. Monthly reports must disclose all compensation, expenditures over $25, and specific contracts targeted. The bill creates a publicly accessible online database to increase transparency in how outside entities attempt to influence state purchasing decisions.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution officially recognizes February 2026 as Black History Month, marking the 100th anniversary of its inception by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926. The bill does not create new laws or regulations but serves as a formal statement from the Maine legislature to honor the contributions and history of African Americans. It specifically highlights Maine's historical involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, noting that local merchants and shipbuilders were deeply entangled in the global economy of enslavement for over a century. By passing this resolution, state lawmakers aim to encourage residents to learn more about these past experiences and their impact on the development of the state and nation.