Oh, wait. I'm informed that practice had previously been banned in an attempt to halt the spread of avian flu. Beaudoin's bill would require that public restrooms provide disposable seat covers. Wouldn't it be simpler to make failing to clean up the splatter a felony?
Democratic state Representative Jon Hinck of Portland (which isn't that far from Biddeford) is the sponsor of "An Act to Prohibit Air Bag Fraud." If this passes, politicians would be legally enjoined from making campaign promises. I like the idea, even if it, too, is a little questionable constitutionally.
Given the severity of the budget crisis the Legislature faces, it's no surprise that several lawmakers have submitted rule changes that would limit the number of bills to be considered this session. One proposal would allow only legislation that "makes a lick of sense." Another plan would ban "anything I don't like." A third reform rejects measures "deemed to have been dreamed up by boobs," although that rule includes an exemption for bills submitted by the governor.
There's little likelihood these efforts will succeed. Already, proposed statutes outlawing everything from cell-phone use in cars to smoking on beaches at state parks are making their ways to committees. But those hoping for a more focused session can take solace in knowing there's one measure that won't be clogging up the system.
Whatever else taxpayers have to endure, they won't be subjected to a bill rescinding their legislators' recent pay raise.
It's still legal to e-mail me at aldiamon@herniahill.net. But for how long?
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