Summary of SP 132 — Joint Order Adjournment Date
Overview
- SP 132 is a joint resolution (classification: joint resolution) introduced on January 28, 2025. The measure sets a specific adjournment date and time for the Maine Legislature, with flexibility to reconvene earlier if called by the presiding officers.
Purpose and intent
- The bill establishes a defined adjournment for the Senate and House, providing a concrete pause in legislative activity through February 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
- It preserves the ability for either chamber to reconvene sooner if the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House issues a call to meet.
Key provisions
- When both chambers adjourn, they will adjourn until Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
- Alternatively, either chamber may be reconvened earlier if the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House issue a call.
- The resolution is a joint order, intended to govern adjournment timing for the session.
- The measure is labeled as “In concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH,” indicating immediate implementation upon concurrence.
Affected parties and scope
- The primary impact is on the legislative schedule of the Maine Senate and Maine House of Representatives. It directly affects when the Legislature is officially in recess and when it can resume business.
- It does not specify changes to substantive policy, appropriations, or budgetary items beyond the adjournment timing, but it may influence deadlines and consideration of bills during the adjournment period.
Procedural and timeline aspects
- Introduced: January 28, 2025.
- Legislative actions on January 28, 2025 indicate: the measure was read, passed, and ordered sent forthwith for concurrence; it moved through the standard reading process in both chambers and is now in concurrence.
- Status: In concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH, meaning the resolution is effective immediately upon concurrence by both chambers.
Potential impact and considerations
- Provides predictability for legislative scheduling and negotiations during the session.
- Ensures a defined downtime period, which may influence constituent communication, bill deadlines, and committee workflows.
- Since the adjournment can be shortened by the call of the presiding officers, the measure retains flexibility to address urgent matters if needed.
