Bill > LD1876

This bill changes the role and duties of the Taxpayer Advocate within the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services, renaming the position to "Taxpayer Advocate and Experience Officer" and expanding its responsibilities. The bill requires the advocate to study and improve access to state tax credits by examining current barriers to usage, investigating tax preparation firms' practices, and developing recommendations to increase awareness and accessibility of tax credits. Specifically, the advocate must conduct a comprehensive study on how eligible individuals are accessing state tax credits, analyze the practices of large tax preparation firms, explore ways state government can better promote tax credit awareness, and assess municipal efforts to inform taxpayers about available credits. The bill mandates the advocate submit a detailed report to the Legislature by November 4, 2026, with findings and potential legislative recommendations. Additionally, the bill allocates $50,000 to support a coalition of approximately 50 organizations providing free volunteer tax assistance to low-income individuals and families, with a requirement for the University of Maine System to report on how these funds are used. The changes aim to improve taxpayer understanding and utilization of available state tax credits and support financial education services.

Budget and Finance

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1876&snum=132