This week, Maine’s Revenue Forecasting Committee announced revenues coming into the state will be approximately $128.5 million higher than original estimates.
Below are statements from Senate President Michael Thibodeau (R-Waldo) and Senator Jim Hamper (R-Oxford), who is the chair of the Maine Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Senate President Michael Thibodeau
“After years of budget deficits under Democrat leadership, it is encouraging to now see surpluses that are the direct result of reforms made by Republicans in the Maine Legislature. I am certain that we would not have seen these impressive revenue figures had we not repealed the job-killing surtax on Maine’s small businesses during the previous session. Nevertheless, far-left groups, funded by out-of-state interests, continue their efforts to write tax policy in Maine via referendum. We need to remain vigilant against these misguided efforts so we can continue to grow Maine’s economy and bring our young people back home.”
Senator James Hamper
“This surplus is the direct result of years of hard work and tough choices made by Republicans on the Appropriations Committee. With the help of our leadership, we reduced income taxes, eliminated the job-killing surtax, payed off our hospital debt and have kept new spending at bay – and the economy is responding with record low unemployment and regular budgetary surpluses. It’s critical that we continue on this track of sound fiscal health while considering future spending and tax structures.”