by James Cyr | Feb 1, 2016 | Uncategorized
AUGUSTA – A bill that will align Maine’s tax code with the federal standards, lowering the tax burden for Maine’s businesses and individuals was passed today by the Legislature’s Taxation Committee. The legislation, LD 1564, “An Act to Update References to the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986 Contained in the Maine Revised Statutes,” was introduced to the Maine Legislature in response to changes the U.S. Congress recently made to federal tax guidelines. The federal bill, “Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act” offers much-needed relief for businesses and individuals. LD 1564 lets Maine’s small businesses keep more of their revenue which will allow them to make investments in their operations and expand and hire new workers. The legislation is strongly supported by members of Maine’s business community. It will benefit teachers by allowing them to deduct classroom expenses. There are tax incentives for homeowners, higher education, and low-income Mainers in the bill. Maine Senate President Michael Thibodeau, (R-Waldo) said, “It is important that we adopt this tax policy for the long term, and not just make a temporary fix, because businesses and all Maine citizens need to know that we are serious about not raising their tax liability and, in effect, their cost of living here doing business.” Tomorrow the bill will be referred to the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee which will take up the issue of funding offsets that it will require. It will then go to the full Legislature for a...
by James Cyr | Jan 19, 2016 | Uncategorized
AUGUSTA – The Maine Legislature today passed emergency legislation to combat the escalating drug crisis in Maine. The $3.7 million spending package puts 10 new Maine drug enforcement agents on the street and dedicates resources to treating drug addicts and to assist drug prevention efforts. Governor Paul LePage signed the bill into law shortly after it was sent to him by the Legislature. Maine lawmakers recently vowed to take immediate action on addressing the drug crisis after public safety and health officials around the state began reporting a sharp spike in the number of heroin-related overdoses and arrests around the state. Senate President Michael Thibodeau (R-Waldo), sponsored the bill,” An Act To Combat Drug Addiction through Enforcement, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery.” (LD 1537). President Thibodeau said, “This sends a clear message to those who want to sell drugs here in Maine: we’re not going to tolerate that kind of activity. We are going to make sure our children have a safe place to grow up.” The votes in both the Maine Senate and House of Representatives were unanimous. “It is remarkable when every legislator in the building puts aside their differences to do something that will help Maine. This is something we should all be very proud of, and it bodes very well for the upcoming session.” Assistant Majority Leader Andre Cushing (R-Penobscot) said, “This legislation highlights the importance of addressing the drug crisis here in Maine. It sends the message to dealers that their deadly drugs are not welcome here in Maine.” Senator Jim Hamper (R-Oxford) cautioned lawmakers from thinking their work was done on this issue. “Let’s...
by James Cyr | Jan 8, 2016 | Uncategorized
The Second Regular Session of the 127th Legislature began on January 6, 2016. The second session is the shorter two. The Legislature is expected to have all its business completed and adjourn in mid-April. Lawmakers don’t have nearly as many bills to consider in the second session, but this Legislature has a lot on its plate, nevertheless. Among the topics they will be tackling are legislation to combat the heroin epidemic in Maine, welfare reform and other...
by James Cyr | Dec 14, 2015 | Uncategorized
“I am pleased the governor has decided to release the voter-approved bonds. I look forward to his cooperation as we reauthorize the expired LMF bonds so they can go out to the market as soon as possible. Senate Republicans have repeatedly supported efforts to provide heating assistance to low-income Mainers, and we will continue to work collaboratively to achieve that goal.” Senate President Michael Thibodeau...
by James Cyr | Dec 8, 2015 | Uncategorized
Below is a letter from Senate President Michael Thibodeau (R-Waldo) to Governor Paul LePage outlining the Legislature’s plans to strengthen drug fighting efforts in Maine. Senate President Letter to the...
by James Cyr | Dec 1, 2015 | Uncategorized
FREEPORT – Maine Senate President Michael Thibodeau (R-Waldo) was recognized by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce Monday night for “outstanding legislative leadership.” The chamber credited the senate president with advancing sound public policy during the past legislative session and working to rise above partisan politics at the State House. Senate President Thibodeau said, “I was very honored to be recognized by the organization that represents businesses across the entire state for the important work that is being doing in...
