STATE HOUSE/REMOTELY – Maine House Republicans received a budget briefing today from the Governor’s Chief of Staff and Finance Commissioner. They were told by the Governor’s Office that further details and printed documentation should be available by Friday.

Preliminary response to the Governor’s Press Release:

“While we are pleased that the Governor has moved off of her previous opposition to increased revenue sharing and is now proposing some tax relief for low-income and elderly Mainers, we continue to believe that there needs to be tax relief for everyone,” said House Republican Leader Kathleen Dillingham. “Every Mainer has been impacted by the pandemic over the last 14 months. Meaningful income and property tax relief is achievable due to the substantial federal relief that is flowing into Maine. The more that can be directed to Maine citizens, the more quickly our economy will recover and add jobs.”

“I question why with over $940 million in new revenue available, the Governor is still proposing to borrow money.” said House Republican Appropriations Lead Sawin Millett. “I am encouraged that she expressed support for bipartisan budget decisions that require two-thirds support. The earlier decision by Democrats to reject bipartisanship in favor of a majority budget has clearly generated public backlash and poisoned the atmosphere at a time when cooperation is needed. I hope the damage can be repaired going forward for the good of all Maine people.”

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