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Republicans Stand Strong, Eliminate Tax Increase from Budget; Government Shutdown Ends

July 4, 2017

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, July 04, 2017
Contact: Adrienne Bennett, Press Secretary, 207-287-2531

AUGUSTA – A three-day state government shutdown ended early Tuesday morning with a signature from Maine Republican Governor Paul R. LePage on the biennial budget for fiscal years 2018-19.

Negotiations on the budget went late into Monday night as the Governor hosted multiple meetings in his Cabinet Room with House Speaker Sara Gideon, Republican House Minority Leader Ken Fredette and other House Republicans.

“I thank legislators for doing the right thing by passing a budget that does not increase taxes on the Maine people,” said Governor LePage. “I especially thank the House Republicans for standing strong throughout these very tough budget negotiations to protect Mainers from an unnecessary tax hike. I am pleased to announce state government will reopen and resume normal operations. Since it is the Fourth of July, Ann and I hope all Mainers enjoy a wonderful day with families and loved ones in celebration our great country’s Independence Day.”

The pace of budget negotiations quickened after Governor LePage met Monday afternoon with House Republicans and pledged to sign a budget that eliminated an increase in the lodging tax from 9 percent to 10.5 percent. Legislators voted on the bill early Tuesday morning with the House voting 147-2 and Senate 35-0.

Governor LePage’s Executive Order directing state government to shut down was terminated Monday night by Executive Proclamation.

 

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