Rep. Michael Soboleski’s (R-Phillips) attempt to appeal his failed proposal to ensure enforcement of Maine’s cannabis laws once again failed on Thursday.
The bill came in response to a Maine Wire report uncovering over 100 illegal Chinese Marijuana grow sites.
Last week, Soboleski joined the Maine Wire to tour several of the locations in Belgrade, including a property on the McGrath Pond Road.
"I'm going to do some investigation to see if public funds and tax dollars are being used to finance these triad operations."@mike_soboleski reacts to our reporting on a bank in NY financing almost 70 illegal Chinese marijuana grow houses in Maine. pic.twitter.com/tW5GXSD79i
— The Maine Wire (@TheMaineWire) November 18, 2023
His bill was entitled, “An Act to Provide Investigative Authority to the Maine State Police, Sheriffs and Local Police Regarding Maine’s Recreational Cannabis Laws and Ordinances to Ensure Proper Enforcement”.
The proposal failed with unanimous opposition from Democrats, ending with three “yes” votes and six “no” votes.
Soboleski sent a formal letter to the legislative council appealing their previous decision, clarifying his proposed bill, and further explaining its importance.
He said his bill was important for the state’s enforcement of its existing laws, especially given the abundance of illegal Chinese cannabis operations proliferating throughout the state.
The appeal did not alter the opinions of any of the Democrats on the legislative council, all of whom continued to oppose the bill.
Soboleski was not able to be at the session to make the case for his appeal in person, but his letter of appeal was read aloud.
The appeal failed, garnering one more “yes” vote than the initial proposal, from Rep. Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor), who had been absent from the council’s previous session.
Now we know who is on the Chinese payroll.
Maine better flush these turds before they sell the whole state.
I don’t understand why we need a bill to be passed in order for police to shut down an illegal grow operation.
Are they growing weed? Yes.
Do they have a license? No.
Then ARREST THEM.
Wtaf?
… exactly my sentiments ‘Jim from Maine’. Liblogic has now permeated this once great state. WHY in God’s name do the law agencies need permission to do their jobs of enforcing the laws of the state! SMH!
Ahhh to be on the CHI-COM payroll in Maine for the high and mighty corrupt dems. Mills needs to go and fast.