AUGUSTA, Maine — Democratic lawmakers say a Republican bill that calls for reducing state income tax rates would shift the tax burden to Maine cities and towns.
In Saturday’s Democratic radio address, Rep. Seth Berry of Bowdoinham says lawmakers will have to take up the bill when they return to work in 10 days.
Berry says the bill would gradually lower income tax rates to a flat 4 percent — but without a plan to make up for lost state revenues.
In the end, he says it would result in towns, cities and schools receiving less state money, thereby forcing municipalities to raise property taxes to make ends meet.
He says Maine’s wealthiest residents would benefit, but that it would “shaft” middle class property taxpayers.