Conservative lawmakers in Maine lose posts after mask row
Associated Press 1 day ago By PATRICK WHITTLE, Associated Press
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Maine s Democratic house speaker stripped seven conservative lawmakers of committee assignments on Monday after the group had a confrontation with Capitol Police about mask rules in the Maine State House.
Republican Rep. Laurel Libby released a video of the confrontation, in which the lawmakers entered the state house without masks on. A Capitol Police officer approached the group, and members said they weren t required to wear masks and continued on.
The lawmakers actions came after the Legislative Council decided last week along party lines to require masks when lawmakers return to the state house, even though a statewide requirement is ending. House Speaker Ryan Fecteau said the mask rules are about demonstrating “a respect for our shared workplace and shouldn t be a partisan issue.
Maine CDC reports 159 COVID-19 cases, one death
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The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention on Saturday reported 159 COVID-19 cases and one death, the lowest daily increase since March 22 as the state prepares to lift its mask mandate.
Gov. Janet Mills on Wednesday signed an executive order that lifts the statewide mask mandate starting Monday. That comes after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control said fully vaccinated people don’t need to wear face coverings indoors. But businesses in Maine may still require masks if they choose, and the U.S. CDC still recommends that unvaccinated people wear masks in public.
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Portland eases safety protocols for city buildings, but masks still required
Visitors and staff who work with the public must continue to wear masks while in City Hall and other public buildings.
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Visitors to Portland City Hall and other city buildings will no longer have their temperature taken or be asked health screening questions, but masks will still be required, the city announced Friday.
The city updated its COVID safety requirements for employees and visitors following announcements last week by federal and state officials that removed requirements for social distancing and masks. Legislative leaders decided Thursday that the Maine State House would reopen to the public May 24 on the condition that all visitors wear masks.