AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - A group of Maine lawmakers and the Sierra Club have proposed legislation that seeks to expand freight and passenger train service in the state.
WABI-TV reports (https://bit.ly/2mOUwc1 ) lawmakers on Thursday proposed bills that would send a major rail bond to voters, enhance the state Passenger Rail Authority and seek federal train funding.
The club hopes to highlight the economic and environmental benefits of public investments in rail infrastructure.
Chairman Tony Donovan says the club sees the new tax revenues expected from the sales of recreational marijuana as an opportunity to fund investments in passenger rail.
The groups discussed the potential of bringing a rail to Bangor.
State Sen. Nate Libby, of Lewiston, says Maine taxpayers shouldn’t be the only ones helping fund the expansion. He says federal taxpayers also should help.
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Information from: WABI-TV, https://www.wabi.tv
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