Appropriations Committee Approves $6.1 Billion Budget

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Late Thursday night, the Maine Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee unanimously passed the $6.1 billion two-year budget. The committee restored cuts to the Fund for a Healthy Maine and prescription drug coverage for the elderly, and rejected the proposal to eliminate all funding for Maine Public Broadcasting Network. “This budget includes tax cuts designed to create jobs and boost Maine’s economy,” said Maine Senate President Kevin L. Raye. “It includes the reforms to strengthen the state pension system, a strong commitment to education, and a balanced approach to welfare reform.” “Committee leaders and members demonstrated incredible leadership, working tirelessly to a find bipartisan compromise even on issues that most divide us,” said Sen. Barry Hobbins, the Senate Democratic leader. The budget now moves to the full legislature. The budget will require a two-thirds majority vote in both the Maine House and Senate for approval.