search
March 10, 2010

Legislator renews call for dividing Maine

AUGUSTA — A lawmaker from northern Maine has launched another attempt to divide Maine into two states.

The proposal by Rep. Henry Joy, R-Island Falls, gives new fuel to the notion of there being two Maines – the prosperous, populated south, and rural north. He says he was inspired by a proposal to create a North Woods natural preserve that would remove valuable woodlands from further economic development.

To be considered by the Legislature, Joy's proposal would have to clear the Legislative Council, something that's unlikely so late in the legislative session. Joy is a member of the House Natural Resources Committee.

Under Joy's plan, the state of Maine would encompass Aroostook, Piscataquis, Somerset, Franklin, Penobscot, and parts of Washington, Hancock and Oxford counties. Southern and coastal Maine would be renamed the state of Northern Massachusetts.
 

Were you interviewed for this story? If so, please fill out our accuracy form

Send Question/Comment to the Publisher




Further Discussion

Here at PressHerald.com we value our readers and are committed to growing our community by encouraging you to add to the discussion. To ensure conscientious dialogue we have implemented a strict no-bullying policy. To participate, you must follow our Terms of Use.

Questions about the article? Add them below and we’ll try to answer them or do a follow-up post as soon as we can. Technical problems? Email them to us with an exact description of the problem. Make sure to include:
  • Type of computer or mobile device your are using
  • Exact operating system and browser you are viewing the site on (TIP: You can easily determine your operating system here.)


Storm Closings

Most...