1. Gov. Janet Mills used her final State of the State to propose $300 “affordability checks” for about 725,000 Mainers, paid for with the state’s rainy day fund. She also called for $70 million in housing investment and making free community college permanent. Republicans — some of whom walked out of Mills’ speech when she brought up abortion access — offered criticism afterwards, saying the $300 checks are a ploy to buy votes. (PH)
2. Sen. Susan Collins says ICE’s recent operations in Maine and Minnesota should be paused and reviewed, calling for a more targeted approach and an independent investigation. Her comments came as nine faith leaders were arrested outside her Portland office during a protest urging her to oppose further ICE funding. (PH)
3. Heavy, fluffy snow piled up across Maine Sunday through Monday, with some of the biggest totals in York County, including nearly 28 inches in Kittery. Lewiston picked up about 18 inches, Portland saw more than 15 inches and set a new daily snowfall record. (WMTW)
4. Bill Belichick was snubbed by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility after falling short of the required votes. The decision itself drew swift backlash from players and fans, with the Class of 2026 set to be announced next week. (WMTW)
5. Southwest Airlines has officially ended open seating, switching to assigned seats after 50 years. The airline says the change, backed by customer surveys, is meant to improve satisfaction and increase revenue. (NBC)
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