More than 60 newly elected legislators were introduced to the legislative process at the State House Thursday as part of the 127th Maine Legislature’s orientation day.
The legislators learned the basics of lawmaking, including how to file a bill, which committees cover particular topics, security measures and staff services, said Grant Pennoyer, executive director of the Legislative Council.
Of the 151 people elected to the House, 53 have no prior legislative experience, according to information posted on the House clerk’s website. When the new Legislature is sworn in next month, the House will have 79 Democrats, 68 Republicans, two independents and two unenrolled members.
In the 35-member Senate, only five members have no legislative experience, according to the Senate secretary’s office. Republicans hold a majority in the chamber, controlling 20 seats to the Democrats’ 15.
Pennoyer said new members will have a second orientation day on Dec. 1, all members will take part in ethics and freedom of information training on Dec. 2, and swearing-in ceremonies will be held Dec. 3.
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