Bill > LD1537

This bill establishes a 13-member Commission to Study Lowering Property Taxes by Revising the State-Municipal Revenue Sharing Program, which will include representatives from the Senate, House of Representatives, municipal governments, county governments, public finance experts, and state officials such as the Commissioner of Administrative and Financial Services and the Treasurer of State. The commission is tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the state-municipal revenue sharing system, focusing on equitable distribution and the diverse needs of municipalities. Specifically, the commission will analyze existing revenue sharing programs like the Local Government Fund and the Disproportionate Tax Burden Fund to identify disparities and develop recommendations to streamline the system for fairness and sustainability. The commission must appoint all members within 30 days of the resolve's effective date, with legislative leaders making most of the appointments across different stakeholder groups. By December 3, 2025, the commission is required to submit a report with its findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the Joint Standing Committee on Taxation, which is then authorized to introduce related legislation during the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature.

Budget and Finance

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1537&snum=132