Conservative Groups Challenge Maine PAC Donation Limits

Conservative groups have filed a lawsuit challenging a newly passed Maine law that limits donations to political action committees (PACs) that engage in independent spending for candidate elections, capping contributions at $5,000. The lawsuit, brought by Dinner Table Action and For Our Future, argues that the law violates the First Amendment by restricting political speech and requiring donor disclosure. Supporters of the law, which was approved by 74% of voters, contend that it aims to restore trust in the political process and reduce the influence of big money. The case is expected to invoke the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which opened the door for unlimited independent spending. The Institute for Free Speech, representing the plaintiffs, claims that the law undermines the constitutional rights of Mainers by limiting their ability to participate in political discourse. As the law has not yet been implemented, the implications of these new limits remain uncertain, but further legal battles are anticipated.