Bill > LD1553

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Maine's tax laws that would require a supermajority (two-thirds vote) in each legislative chamber to raise existing tax rates or impose new taxes, with an alternative option for tax changes to be approved through direct voter initiative. Specifically, the amendment would modify the existing constitutional provision about taxation by adding a requirement that any increase in tax rates or creation of new taxes must either be approved by a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate or be directly approved by voters through their right of initiative. The proposed amendment would be placed on the ballot during a statewide election in November, where Maine voters will decide whether to approve the constitutional change. If a majority of voters support the amendment, it will become part of the state constitution, effectively making it more difficult for the legislature to raise taxes by requiring broader consensus or direct public approval. This type of supermajority requirement is designed to provide additional protection against what some view as potentially excessive taxation by making tax increases more challenging to enact.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1553&snum=132