ME LD268

Beginning January 1, 2026, courts would have discretion to impose sentences below mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for all criminal offenses across all Maine statutes.

Mandatory minimum sentences would be converted to maximum terms, allowing judges to determine appropriate sentence lengths on a case-by-case basis.

Criminal Law Advisory Commission must compile a list of all mandatory minimum sentencing provisions in Maine law and submit a report by December 3, 2025.

The report must include proposed language to change each mandatory minimum to a maximum term at the court's discretion.

Joint Standing Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety may introduce follow-up legislation in the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature based on the commission's findings.