YouTube video of September 30, 2026 Commission Meeting
1. Ratification of the Minutes of the July 29, 2026 Meeting
Motion: To ratify the July 29, 2026 minutes as presented
Made by: Commissioner LeClaire
Seconded by: Commissioner Gross
Vote: 4-0
2. Request for Waiver of Late Filing Penalty – Candidate Michelle Tucker
As a candidate for the Maine House of Representatives, Michelle Tucker was required to file a personal financial disclosure by August 17, 2026 stating the sources of her personal income in 2025 and other information. She did not file the report after receiving multiple emails and two letters. Ms. Tucker requests a waiver of the $100 late filing penalty. Staff recommendation: Commission staff recommend reducing the penalty to $50.
Motion: To find the personal financial discloser was filed late and reduce the penalty to $50.
Made by: Commissioner Schneider
Seconded by: Commissioner Bailey
Vote: 4-0
3. Request to Investigate Alleged Violation of Confidentiality Restrictions
On July 8, 2026, Assistant House Republican Leader Katrina Smith submitted a letter to the Ethics Commission concerning House Speaker Ryan Fecteau’s new employment. Her letter was shared with two news organizations which published online articles the next day. Speaker Fecteau requests that the Commission investigate whether Rep. Smith knowingly violated the confidentiality restrictions for legislative ethics complaints by sharing her July 8 letter with the press.
Motion: To take no further action on the complaint.
Made by: Commissioner Schneider
Seconded by: Commissioner Gross
Vote: 4-0
4. Missing “Paid for By” Disclosure in Ad – Candidate David Guilmette
Seth Berry filed a complaint with the Commission regarding a campaign ad in the Richmond town newsletter that was purchased by House candidate David Guilmette. The ad lacked any statement of who paid for it. Mr. Guilmette describes this as an oversight. Staff recommendation: Commission staff recommend finding that Mr. Guilmette violated 21-A M.R.S. § 1014(1) and that any penalty not exceed $90.
Motion: To find the ad was missing proper disclosure and reduce the penalty to $50.
Made by: Commissioner Schneider
Seconded by: Commissioner LeClaire
Vote: 4-0
Each election year, the Ethics Commission submits legislation to be considered in the First Regular Session of the Legislature. The Commission will consider statutory changes proposed by agency staff.
Motion: To advance the proposed legislation for consideration in the First Regular Session of the Legislature.
Made by: Commissioner Schneider
Seconded by: Commissioner Gross
Vote: 4-0
Other Business
Executive Session (none necessary)
ADJOURNMENT 10:32 AM