📝 E-Newsletter from Representative Josanne Dolloff

Representative Dolloff Announces Local Projects in Maine DOT Work Plan

AUGUSTA – State Representative Josanne Dolloff (R-Rumford) is pleased to announce that the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) Work Plan for Calendar Years 2020, 2021 and 2022 is available. The estimated value of work in the plan totals more than $2.59 billion and encompasses 2,051 projects across the state.

The MDOT Work Plan for Legislative District 115 includes $10.15 million for replacement of three bridges in Rumford (Martins, High and Red Bridges). 

“MDOT Work Plan projects will benefit our local communities in many ways,” said Rep. Dolloff. “I am pleased to see several MDOT projects scheduled for the next three years in our area. They will make our roads safer and benefit local economies.”

The full work plan, searchable by municipality, is available at the Maine Department of Transportation’s website: https://www.maine.gov/mdot/projects/workplan/search/ .

AccessAble Home Tax Credit

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The AccessAble Home Tax Credit is a Maine income tax credit available to individuals who earn $55,000 or less for expenses paid for modifications to their residence to make it accessible for a person with a physical disability or physical hardship who lives or will live at the residence.

The Maine Legislature enacted the AccessAble Home Tax Credit to take effect beginning January 1, 2017 for expenses paid in the 2017 calendar year. The credit is noted on 2017 tax forms filed with Maine Revenue Services in 2018.

What types of modifications qualify?

Modifications must make the home more accessible for a person with a physical disability or a physical hardship who lives or will live at the residence to qualify.  Some examples are changes to flooring to mitigate tripping hazards, installation of grab bars, installation of access ramps, and widening of doorways.  A therapeutic swimming pool, for example, would not qualify.  A contractor or homeowner may perform work in addition to the work that makes the home more accessible, but that additional work will not qualify for the credit.

Taxpayers must demonstrate that the work meets the following standards:

Suitability for the individual with a disability or physical hardship who resides or will reside in the residence;

General consistency with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) ICC A117.1-2009 standards; and Compliance with applicable building codes

What if the amount of credit I am eligible for exceeds the taxes I owe?

The nonrefundable AccessAble Home Tax Credit is equal to the lesser of $9,000 or the applicable percentage of qualified expenses. The credit may not exceed the tax liability of the taxpayer, however, unused portions of the credit may be carried forward for up to four taxable years following the year during which the credit was earned. Taxpayers should consult their tax preparer or Maine Revenue Services for guidance regarding filing requirements and the use of tax credits.  MaineHousing is not able to answer questions regarding income tax law, preparation or filing.

A Bear Den Visit with Wildlife Biologists

One lucky winner and a friend (must be 18+) will have the chance to spend a day in the Maine woods at a bear den with wildlife biologists. Experience a day in the field with biologists as they locate and immobilize a collared bear sow to collect data on her and her cubs. Enter for a chance to win this once in a lifetime experience! Winner selected on February 20, 2020.

Upcoming Public Hearings

Now that the Second Regular Session is in full swing, legislative committees are busy holding public hearings and work sessions. Visit here for a complete list of scheduled committee work.