LEGISLATURE ENACTS TWO YEAR STATE BUDGET

Responsible bipartisan budget heads to Governor for signature

AUGUSTA—Earlier today, the Maine Senate took the final vote in favor of a responsible bipartisan state budget with a vote of 25-10.

“This is not a perfect budget. But it is a budget that reflects the spirit of compromise and getting things done for the people of our state,” said Assistant Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson of Allagash. “This is the best compromise that I have ever been a part of and reflects how this Legislature is supposed to work.”

The bipartisan budget, unanimously recommended by the 13 member budget writing panel, restores nearly two-thirds of the cuts to municipal revenue sharing, the Homestead exemption, $37 million in funding for education, and funding for the early childhood program Head Start.

“As a committee and as a Legislature, we left politics at the door. We rolled up our sleeves and worked together to craft a responsible, bipartisan budget for the people of Maine,” said Senator Dawn Hill of York, the Senate Chair of the committee. “This is what we are expected to do. And I’m proud of our ability to work together despite our differences.”

Additionally, the Legislature’s budget restores funding for merit and longevity pay for state workers.

“Every two years we take a vote that is perhaps one of the most challenging. It requires us to set aside our philosophical differences and do what is right by looking ahead to our future,” said Senate Majority Leader Seth Goodall of Richmond. “This budget makes public education stronger and finally acknowledges the public service and dedication of our state employees.”

The bipartisan budget also restores cuts to programs that help seniors pay for their medicine and reduces waitlists for enhanced specialized MaineCare services for people with severe disabilities.

The restorations are paid for, in part, by closing corporate tax loopholes, and increasing the sales tax by half a penny and the meals and lodging taxes by one percent until June 30, 2015.

“This is a tough budget, but it is fair, and passing this budget is the right thing to do,” said Senator Emily Cain of Orono, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

Six months ago, the governor proposed a $6.3 billion budget that shifted nearly $400 million in cuts onto towns, property owners, and small businesses.

The Legislature’s proposal, LD 1509, will now be sent to the governor for his signature.

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