ME LD1618

Establishes a 12-member Study Group to Research the Feasibility of Establishing a Dedicated Family Court in Maine, with members appointed by the Senate President and House Speaker

Study group membership includes 2 senators, 2 representatives, a judge, a family process manager, representatives from child welfare and domestic violence organizations, a guardian ad litem, and 2 individuals with personal family court experience

Required examination topics include current family law case volume and types, average resolution times, potential for reducing delays, best practices from other states, resource requirements, and frequency of cases heard by multiple judges

Report with findings, recommendations, and suggested legislation due by December 3, 2025 for the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature

Designated as emergency legislation to take effect immediately upon approval, allowing the study to begin before the standard 90-day waiting period