Maine Constitution Article IV.LEGISLATIVE POWER
Here is a summary of Article IV – Legislative Power of the Maine Constitution:
Maine Constitution – Article IV: Legislative Power
Purpose: Establishes the structure, authority, and functions of the Maine State Legislature, known as the Legislature of the State of Maine.
Structure of Article IV
Article IV is divided into two parts:
Part First – House of Representatives
Composition:
Members are called Representatives.
The number of Representatives is set by law (currently 151).
Elected every two years by popular vote in districts.
Eligibility:
Must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have resided in Maine for at least one year.
Powers:
Can initiate all types of legislation.
Has the power to impeach state officials (trial held in the Senate).
Part Second – Senate
Composition:
Members are called Senators.
Number determined by law (currently 35).
Elected every two years by popular vote.
Leadership:
Senate elects its President, who presides over sessions.
Senate tries impeachments.
Eligibility:
Similar requirements as for Representatives.
General Legislative Powers (applies to both chambers)
Law-making Authority:
The Legislature enacts state laws.
Bills must be passed by both houses and signed by the Governor (or overridden by a 2/3 vote if vetoed).
Term Limits:
Members of both houses are limited to four consecutive 2-year terms.
Compensation:
Legislators receive pay and expenses as determined by law.
Sessions:
Regular sessions are held annually.
The first session begins in odd-numbered years; the second session in even-numbered years is shorter.
Initiative and Referendum (Direct Democracy):
Citizens can propose laws (initiatives) or reject laws passed by the Legislature (referendum) through petitions.
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