Snowe takes to `Main Street,’ calls for tougher crime bill

PORTLAND — U.S. Rep. Olympia Snowe proposed Tuesday an anti-crime package that includes mandatory sentences for gun-related state felonies and expanded restitution programs for victims.

Snowe, the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate, outlined her four-point plan at a news conference that kicked off a series of “Main Street” walks in 70 towns and cities across the state.

“Maine people deserve to be safe on their main streets,” Snowe said. “Current laws lean too far in favor of criminals — and it’s time to get tough on criminals and lend a hand to the victims of crime.”

She hailed the crime bill now before Congress as “a good start” but said her proposals would make communities safer.

Snowe and her Democratic opponent, Rep. Tom Andrews, voted for the compromise crime bill that passed the House on Sunday. The two had split along party lines on an earlier procedural vote that threatened to block passage of a crime bill this session.

Snowe said felons who commit violent state crimes with guns should face mandatory minimum sentences of 10 to 30 years, while repeat offenders receive 20 years to life.