The other day when I was out going door-to-door in Searsmont, a fellow asked me if I would support cutting the size of the Maine Legislature down to one chamber. My answer:
"Absolutely!"
In 2009 we had a bill, LD 1424, which would have allowed voters to decide by referendum whether Maine would adopt a unicameral system, similar to what Nebraska has had for several decades. I voted for this bill and will strongly support future efforts to create unicameral legislature. With one house, I believe we will save money, as well as make politicians more accountable and efficient. My good friend Rep. Valentino set up a website to provide information about her bill LD 1424 and answer frequently asked questions.
The following "top ten questions" on Rep. Valentino's webpage are based on LD 1424, which did not pass. However, I believe they provide a picture of what this structural change would look like for the state.
Top Ten Questions
1. Will the citizens get to vote on this issue?
Yes, in November 2010.
2. If the vote is approved, when will the first Unicameral Legislature be seated?
In December, after the 2014 elections.
3. How many proposed members of a Unicameral Legislature?
105.
4. Will there still be two members representing the Tribes and Nations?
Yes.
5. What will the Legislators be called?
Senators.
6. How many constituents will the new Senators have?
About 12,400.
7. Will redistricting have to take place?
Yes.
8. Will it cost additional money to redistrict for a unicameral?
No. Maine is scheduled to conduct a redistricting based on the 2010 census. Therefore, Maine has already budgeted for redistricting to take place. This will happen with or without the unicameral bill being passed.
9. Will Legislators still serve two-year terms? Yes. Will they still be subject to term limits?
Term limits are not addressed in the Maine Constitution. Term limits are set by statute. LD 1424 only addresses constitutional items, therefore, does not alter term limits.
10. What is the estimated cost savings of a unicameral in Maine?
$15 million over a two-year budget.
Andy O'Brien 2010: Candidate for Maine State Representative District 44 Notes from the Campaign Trail!
