1. Governor Mills is pushing back after Dr. Oz and the Trump administration raised concerns about Maine’s Medicaid program. Mills says allegations of fraud are being used as a political attack, while federal officials cite a report flagging tens of millions in potential improper payments for autism services. State leaders insist the report found compliance issues, not fraud. Dr. Oz gave Maine 30 days to answer questions about how the state tracks Medicaid payments. (PH)
2. Former gubernatorial candidate Elliot Cutler was caught violating his probation for a third time. Maine State Police SVU were conducting an unrelated investigation at a hotel in South Portland where they encountered Cutler. It was determined that 79-year-old Cutler was in violation of his probation and was arrested. In 2023 Cutler was convicted of possession of sexually explicit material of a minor under 12. (WGME)
3. Greater Portland Metro is considering a fare increase for the first time in six years. Base fares have been two dollars since 2020, and transit officials say public meetings on a possible rate hike are scheduled for April. (WGME)
4. Plans for a 62-million-dollar rebuild of the historic Ogunquit Playhouse have been outlined. The planning board reviewed a proposal Monday that would completely reconstruct the theater, add offices, new outdoor spaces, and major accessibility upgrades. If all goes as planned organizers hope the new Ogunquit Playhouse will be open by the end of the year. (WGME)
5. YouTube TV is rolling out cheaper custom channel packages covering sports, entertainment, and news. The new bundles will cost less than the current 82.99 a month plan, still allow up to six users per account, and include new features like custom multiview. (Verge)
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