This session’s supplemental budget funded crucial programs, but also fell short in some areas. It established our paid family and medical leave program, expanded Maine’s version of the child tax credit, and created a “housing first” program. However, it failed to fund restoration of MaineCare access to all low-income Mainers regardless of immigration status, and did not fund an increase in the minimum wage. And while it did not expand tax cuts for the wealthy, it established a $55-million-per-year tax break that will disproportionately help big businesses.
While this budget has shortcomings, it will reduce chronic homelessness, support low-income families, and allow Maine families to take care of themselves or a loved one in times of illness or other crises without going into debt, risking their job or housing, or facing other terrible tradeoffs.
Despite significant bipartisan consensus in the budget committee, both chambers voted largely along party lines on the floor votes. Governor Mills then signed the budget into law.