Maine Legislature Considering Rescinding Property Tax Credit

By:  David Deschesne

Fort Fairfield Journal, February 18, 2015

   For many Mainers, property taxes are a problem, some simply can’t afford to pay them.  The Homestead Exemption credit, which mandates the towns reduce the property tax billed to homeowners who live in the State has for years been a benefit to those taxpayers by reducing their tax burden.

   However, the Maine legislature is now considering legislation as part of the proposed State budget that would eliminate that tax credit to everyone under the age of 65.  It would, however, double the credit for those over 65 thus shifting the tax burden onto the working poor—those who were fortunate enough to have been able at one time to afford their own home, but under current economic conditions are unable to pay for the ever-increasing tax burdens placed on them by irresponsible State and local governments.

  If the budget is passed by the State legislature the tax credit for homeowners will disappear with this year’s tax bill, potentially increasing it by as much as 40 to 50 percent.

  Since the budget has not yet been passed, those who would be adversely affected should contact their local State Representative to voice their concerns.