ASSOCIATED PRESS • June 24, 2020
Attorneys who contend that a referendum on a $1 billion hydropower transmission project is unconstitutional asked a Superior Court judge on Wednesday to remove the question from the November ballot. The lawsuit contends the Maine Constitution links referendums to legislative acts, not agency decisions. It also contends the referendum violates the state constitution’s separation of powers. Hydro Quebec would supply the energy that supporters say would reduce carbon pollution and stabilize utility rates. Critics say the environmental benefits are overstated and the project would spoil part of Maine’s North Woods.