MaineLD 2212132nd Maine Legislature (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

An Act Making Supplemental Appropriations and Allocations from the General Fund and Other Funds for the Expenditures of State Government and Changing Certain Provisions of the Law Necessary to the Proper Operations of State Government for the Fiscal Years Ending June 30, 2026 and June 30, 2027

Sponsored By: Drew Gattine (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

133 provisions identified: 103 benefits, 14 costs, 16 mixed.

MaineCare protects access to federally unfunded providers

Maine must pay authorized providers when federal law blocks federal Medicaid payment for otherwise covered care. This includes family planning and other Medicaid-covered services lawfully provided to MaineCare members during the federal funding bar. Payment must be at least the MaineCare rate in effect when care was provided. The requirement also covers qualifying care from July 1, 2025, through the section's effective date. The department cannot exclude or limit a provider's participation because it is federally unfunded.

Reserve helps protect MaineCare services and costs

Maine allocates $31.25 million for fiscal year 2026-27 to help prevent MaineCare service losses or higher service costs. The money addresses shortages in state appropriations, federal matching funds, or other funding. It also addresses threats caused by changes in federal or state law, rules, or policy. The allocation does not set an individual payment amount.

More affordable homes for Maine households

The law provides $37.5 million in one-time funding to support more than 300 affordable homes for rent or ownership. Money supports rural rentals, federal low-income housing tax credit projects, and the Affordable Homeownership Program. It also supports code compliance and expansion or infill at manufactured home parks where residents rent their lots. Projects can receive added incentives for wood fiber insulation and heat pumps, plus consideration for modular construction.

Rent help and protection against eviction

Maine State Housing Authority must create rental assistance paying landlords up to $800 monthly for up to 12 months. Household income cannot exceed 60% of area median income, adjusted for family size. Rent cannot exceed 125% of federal fair market rent for the household size and area. Participants must pay 30% of their income toward rent. Priority goes first to renters served with eviction court papers, then those with nonpayment notices, then those paying over 30% of income in rent. During months with assistance, landlords may evict participants only for cause. Outside administrators must check eligibility every six months after approval and limit administrative costs to 12% of distributions.

Higher minimum pay for Maine teachers

The minimum salary for certified and career and technical education teachers remains $40,000 through the 2026–27 school year. It rises to $45,000 in 2027–28, $47,500 in 2028–29, and $50,000 in 2029–30 and later years. Beginning in 2027–28, extra state school subsidies fund eligible salary increases through fiscal year 2029–30. School units qualify when their local minimum teacher salary is below $45,000 in 2027–28, and must use the money for salary adjustments. Teacher counts use submitted education data; the 2027–28 calculation uses data submitted and certified as of October 1, 2026.

Qualifying teachers get $5,000 annual supplement

Beginning in fiscal year 2026–27, qualifying National Board-certified teachers receive a $5,000 annual salary supplement. They must remain employed as teachers. At least 50% of their school’s students must qualify for free or reduced-price lunch or meet the stated economic disadvantage test.

Special retirement coverage reaches more state workers

The 1998 Special Plan covers Chief Medical Examiner employees and qualifying health department Community Response Workers. Community Response Workers must be employed on August 1, 2026, or hired later. They must provide crisis outreach and services to adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities in community or residential settings. Newly covered workers can purchase credit for qualifying past service, regardless of when it occurred. Retirement requires the applicable service test: age 55 with 10 years of plan credit, or 25 years in a specified role. Covered examiner employees’ service under the regular state employee and teacher plan is calculated under the Special Plan.

Tuition waivers for recent Maine graduates

Eligible Maine community college students receive tuition waivers for up to two years, limited by available funding. Students must have finished high school or earned an equivalent diploma within the previous two academic years. They must pursue an associate degree or another academic credential. They must have lived in Maine for 12 consecutive months immediately before admission and remain Maine residents while enrolled. Students must accept available federal and state grants, scholarships, and other funding; waivers end by 150% of the program's stated completion time.

Added tax credit for disabled veterans

For Maine tax years beginning January 1, 2023, qualifying resident veterans receive an additional income tax credit equal to the specified existing credit. Veterans must have served on active duty and have a VA rating of 100% for permanent service-connected disabilities. Those discharged, retired, or separated must have left under conditions other than dishonorable. Combined credits cannot exceed qualifying property taxes on the veteran's Maine home, including rent counted as property taxes. On a joint return, only one spouse must meet the veteran requirements.

Larger standard deductions for Maine residents

For 2025, Maine's basic standard deduction is $12,000 for single and married-separate filers, $18,000 for heads of household, and $24,000 for joint filers and surviving spouses. For 2026, those amounts rise to $15,700, $23,550, and $31,400. The applicable federal additional standard deduction also applies in both years. Beginning in 2027, Maine uses the federal standard deduction. An income phase-out still applies.

Tax relief for participating business owners

Qualified owners of businesses electing Maine's pass-through tax receive a refundable credit equal to 90% of tax reported to them. The business must pay the tax and report the owner's identity and share. Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2026, owners can also claim an income adjustment for their share of qualifying entity taxes. That adjustment covers Maine's tax and substantially similar taxes imposed by another state, its local governments, or the District of Columbia.

Funding for Maine schools and buildings

For 2026–27, Maine sets public school costs, including normal teacher retirement costs, at about $2.871 billion. The state share is about $1.579 billion, the local share is $1.292 billion, and the mill expectation is 5.645. Another $292.083 million covers teacher-related unfunded liabilities. By June 30, 2027, the state transfers $31.25 million from General Fund surplus to protect school funding against shortages. The state also pays approved school project principal and interest in the allocation year, excluding costs covered by specified bond accounts or tied to schools closed for lack of need.

Extra income tax for high earners

Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2026, Maine charges an extra 2% on taxable income above filing-status thresholds. The threshold is $1 million for single filers and $1.5 million for joint filers, heads of household, and surviving spouses. Married people filing separately use half the applicable threshold, or $750,000. Thresholds change annually using the specified chained consumer price index. Estates and trusts use the single-filer threshold.

Investors owe tax on business-stock gains

Investors must add federally excluded gains from qualifying small business stock sales to Maine income. This applies to stock first acquired after July 3, 2025. The amount added is the gain excluded under the federal qualified small business stock rule.

Investors pay tax on opportunity gains

For opportunity zone investments made after December 31, 2026, investors must add certain federally excluded gains to Maine income. When property acquired after that date is sold, Maine also includes the applicable increase in its tax basis. Investors can subtract previously added gains when those gains later enter federal income. This subtraction prevents the previously added gain from being counted again in Maine income.

Businesses phase in research tax deductions

Affected businesses add back federal domestic research deductions to Maine income: 100% in 2025, 70% in 2026, 50% in 2027, 30% in 2028, and 10% in 2029. Businesses meeting the federal gross receipts test are exempt, except tax shelters barred from using cash accounting. Certain deductions under federal Public Law 119-21, section 70302(f)(2), still require a 100% addback in 2026. From 2025 through 2030, businesses can subtract qualifying research costs previously added to Maine income, including eligible 2022–2025 costs. Certain amounts are spread over the applicable period ending in tax year 2030, and deductions cannot exceed costs previously added back.

Electric assistance eligibility for low-income households

The law defines which low-income households qualify for the referenced electric ratepayer assistance. Household income must be no more than 150% of the federal poverty level. Households must also qualify for a listed Maine State Housing Authority program or a means-tested state health and human services program. This provision does not set the assistance amount.

Sexual assault evidence kept for 20 years

Law enforcement agencies must keep completed sexual assault forensic examination kits for 20 years. The requirement applies even when the alleged assault was not reported to police. For unreported cases, this extends storage from 8 years to 20 years.

Victims gain confidential evidence tracking protections

Sexual assault victims whose evidence was collected in a kit can securely and anonymously check its status. Tracking information is confidential; authorized agencies and providers update kit status and location under department rules. Law enforcement must store sexual assault kits for 20 years and strangulation-only kits for 6 years, even without a report. The investigating agency must take possession when a victim reports by examination completion or after the kit reaches law enforcement.

Funding creates youth psychiatric treatment facility

Maine provides $3.39968 million in fiscal year 2026–27 to establish a youth residential psychiatric treatment facility. The facility supports access for youth who need residential psychiatric care. The money establishes the facility rather than providing cash to families.

Meal grants support off-site preschool children

The education department must create grants for breakfast, lunch, and snacks at qualifying off-site public preschools. Eligibility must follow child care licensing and preschool approval standards, including rules for eligible special education partnerships. Food must meet child care nutrition standards, and districts and providers must agree on meal delivery and reimbursement. Grants cannot exceed the annual federal school lunch reimbursement rate per student. Funds cannot be paid before the 2027–28 school year.

More MaineCare waiver slots for disabilities

For 2026–27, Maine provides $942,205 in state funds and $1.450383 million in federal funds to restore 15 reserve slots. These slots serve Priority 1 candidates for the MaineCare intellectual disability or autism waiver under Section 21. The same budget year provides $2.446950 million in state funds and $3.757290 million in federal funds for more lifespan waiver slots. That funding supports slots during and beyond implementation of the new home and community-based services lifespan waiver. The law does not state how many lifespan slots are added or set individual cash benefits.

State grants support family planning access

For years after 2024-25, qualifying Maine Title X providers get replacement grants when federal action cuts funding or funding conditions cause withdrawal. Each grant covers the gap between the provider's 2024-25 Title X funding and the later amount received and accepted. The health department must also fund statewide family planning access and choose one qualified managing provider through competitive proposals. These service grants must add to other funding and cannot use fee-for-service payments. The law states an intent—not an actual appropriation here—to provide $5 million yearly beginning in fiscal year 2027-28.

Home support for aging or disabled homeowners

The Community Aging in Place program receives $2 million in one-time funding for two years. Nonprofits provide services to eligible low-income elderly or disabled homeowners in Maine. The funding supports their ability to stay home, but no per-household amount is stated.

More eviction help for Maine renters

The law provides $11 million in one-time funding for eviction prevention in fiscal year 2026–27. Renters at risk of eviction can qualify with income up to 60% of area median income. The program pays landlords up to $800 monthly for up to 12 months, while participants pay 30% of their income. Rent cannot exceed 125% of the federal fair market rent.

More housing and shelter help

The law provides $12 million in one-time funding for homelessness and other immediate housing emergencies. Money can support emergency, transitional, and permanent housing programs. Emergency shelters also receive $4.75 million for operations in fiscal year 2026–27, including $3.25 million in one-time funding. These funds support housing services and shelter operations, not fixed cash payments to residents.

Public school access extends through age 21

Residents who have not turned 22 before the school year starts can enroll full-time in their local public school. Students must also meet applicable minimum age requirements. Part-time enrollment requires school board consent. This expands elementary and secondary school access for eligible 20- and 21-year-olds.

Double tax credit for young dependents

Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2025, Maine doubles the dependent credit for each qualifying dependent under age 6. The child or dependent must still be under 6 at the end of the tax year. Families must qualify for the underlying credit; the increase equals one additional base credit for each eligible dependent.

Extra home exemptions for veterans and blindness

For property tax years beginning April 1, 2027, homes qualifying for the general homestead exemption can receive additional exemptions. Eligible veterans receive $5,000 to $50,000 in exempt value, depending on age, disability rating, or specially adapted housing grant eligibility. Only one applicable veteran exemption may be claimed; eligible unremarried surviving spouses, minor children, or parents can claim a deceased veteran's exemption. Legally blind residents can receive up to $5,000 more in exempt value, with blindness confirmed by a licensed physician or optometrist. Housing cooperatives must divide qualifying tax reductions among eligible shareholders; savings depend on local tax rates.

Higher credit cap for Maine residents

Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2026, the resident credit cap rises from $1,000 to $1,500 for people under 65. The credit equals the amount by which the benefit base used in the calculation exceeds 4% of income, up to the cap. Married people filing separately cannot claim it. For joint returns, one spouse being 65 or older is enough for the law's age-based limit to apply.

Homeowners receive a home-value tax exemption

For property tax years beginning April 1, 2027, eligible homeowners can exempt up to $25,000 of home value from taxation. Owners must use the home as their permanent residence and have owned it for the preceding 12 months. Certain revocable living trusts, deeded life estates, and cooperative housing ownership qualify. Property used solely for business does not qualify. The exemption reduces taxable value, not the tax bill by $25,000; savings depend on the local tax rate.

Residents get credit for out-of-state taxes

Maine residents can claim a credit for qualifying income tax paid to another jurisdiction on income also taxed by Maine. This includes their share of tax paid by a pass-through business under a tax substantially similar to Maine's. The credit is limited by the share of Maine adjusted gross income from the other jurisdiction. Applicable refundable credits reduce the credit.

Logging businesses get broader equipment exemptions

For sales on or after January 1, 2027, Maine expands the commercial wood harvesting sales tax exemption. Covered work includes cutting, moving, and hauling forest products to their first destination for production or use. Eligible equipment expressly includes specified trailers, trucks, truck tractors, pickup trucks, and commercial motor vehicles. Equipment must be used directly and primarily in commercial wood harvesting.

More funding for MaineCare hospital services

For 2026-27, the law funds higher hospital costs with about $23.77 million in state money and $54.09 million federally. Separate one-time cost funding adds about $16.42 million from the state and $33.72 million federally. Acute care hospitals also receive a one-time supplement of $2.5 million state and $5 million federal. Their cost-of-living adjustment receives $5 million state and $10 million federal. These payments support hospitals serving MaineCare members; they do not set patient savings or change coverage.

More funding to protect MaineCare services

The law provides $22 million once to help prevent MaineCare service losses or higher service costs. This money addresses funding shortages and changes in laws, rules, or policies. For 2026-27, provider funding rises about $193.74 million: $28.52 million state, $161.5 million federal, and $3.72 million federal block grants. Separate one-time funding includes $100 million in federal money and about $3.79 million in federal block grants. These increases respond to health care costs and enrollment trends; they do not set individual benefit amounts.

Covered state workers pay retirement contributions

For specified service after July 31, 2026, members in the plan’s paragraph S through U groups contribute 8.65% of earnable pay. After completing 25 years of credited service, their rate is 7.65%. Contributions apply directly or through an employer pickup arrangement.

Family tax credit shrinks above income limits

Starting with tax year 2025, Maine's dependent credit drops as income rises above filing-status limits. Maine adjusted gross income limits are $100,000 for single filers and $125,000 for heads of household. The limit is $150,000 for joint filers or surviving spouses, and $75,000 for married people filing separately. The credit drops $20 for each $500, or part of $500, above the limit. The reduction cannot take the credit below zero.

New tax option for business partnerships

Beginning with 2026 tax years, eligible partnerships and S corporations can elect an entity-level tax at Maine's highest individual rate, excluding the surcharge. Publicly traded partnerships and entities taxed under the specified separate chapter are excluded; elections are annual, require timely returns, and become final after the extended due date. Chapter 822 credits cannot reduce this tax; estimated payments are generally due on the 15th day of months 4, 6, 9, and 13. Payments are waived when current-year estimated liability or prior-year liability is below $1,000; otherwise, they use the smaller of prior-year liability or 90% of current-year liability. Entities also pay estimated tax equal to 10% of tax reported for each nonresident qualified member, report it within 30 days after the unextended return deadline, and exclude it from the prior-year liability test.

Covered workers face retirement calculation rules

For the plan’s paragraph S group, qualifying service before August 1, 2026, and after July 31, 2026, is calculated separately. The retirement benefit equals the sum of those parts. For the paragraph T and U groups, the calculation includes all qualifying service, regardless of when earned. Specified age-based reductions still apply to members qualifying under the affected retirement route. Those members with fewer than 10 service years on July 1, 1993, face a 6% reduction per year below age 55.

Family credit continues; separate credit ends

Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2026, Maine continues its $300 credit per qualifying child or dependent without the former end date. Eligibility depends on qualifying for the federal child tax credit for the same year, and an income phase-out applies. The separate $300 credit based on federal personal-exemption eligibility ends, including for nonresident and part-year resident filers. Ending that separate credit does not remove other credits a filer independently qualifies for.

Businesses adjust deductions for accelerated depreciation

Taxpayers must add back the extra depreciation from the federal Section 168(n) deduction when calculating Maine income. In later years, they can subtract specified depreciation that applies without that federal deduction. Total subtractions for each property cannot exceed its prior Maine addbacks. A taxable sale or other taxable disposal also requires a Maine gain or loss adjustment.

One-time $300 payments for eligible Mainers

The law provides $155.2 million for one-time $300 payments, administration, and taxpayer help. Eligible recipients are full-year Maine residents filing 2025 income tax returns. Income limits are $100,000 for joint filers, $75,000 for heads of household, and $50,000 for single filers. Initial checks are due July 31, 2026, with additional payments by December 31, 2026. Supplemental claims are due March 1, 2027; final payments are due April 30, 2027. Payments are protected from state debt offsets. Any payment included in federal adjusted gross income is deducted from Maine taxable income for 2026–27.

More funding for low-income electric assistance

The law's Part A funding for low-income electric assistance adds to money already allocated by Maine's Public Utilities Commission. This provision does not state the added amount or how much any household receives.

Heating assistance funding for SNAP households

Maine provides about $1.486 million from the General Fund for SNAP participants' heating assistance in fiscal year 2026-27. The funding aims to improve payment accuracy. The provision does not state an individual heating benefit amount or an eligibility formula.

Heating payment authority for SNAP households

The health department can issue an annual heating assistance payment to households receiving SNAP benefits. Payments depend on available funds. The law states no payment amount or start date.

More emergency care funding for immigrants

The law adds $524,639 in state funding for emergency medical services in 2026-27. It supports immigrants classified as nonqualified who receive emergency services and otherwise qualify for Medicaid expansion. The money responds to a lower federal matching rate. It does not expand general Medicaid eligibility or change immigration status.

Housing help after leaving incarceration

The law provides $167,640 for transitional housing in fiscal year 2026–27. This includes $83,820 in funding and another $83,820 in one-time funding. Housing supports formerly incarcerated clients receiving Maine Adult Community Corrections services. No individual benefit amount is stated.

More electric bill help for low-income households

Maine provides $7.5 million in one-time electric bill assistance funding for fiscal year 2026-27. Maine State Housing Authority administers the money for eligible low-income electric customers. This provision does not set household payment amounts or income limits.

More funding for free community college

Maine provides $2.5 million to its seven community colleges for fiscal year 2026-27. The money continues scholarships for students participating in the state's free community college tuition program. This funding provision does not set each student's award amount.

Homeowners keep exemptions through qualifying changes

Beginning April 1, 2027, Maine permanent residents who regain their home from the foreclosing municipality count as continuous owners. The municipality's temporary ownership after tax lien foreclosure cannot itself block their homestead exemption. Property with a homestead, veterans, or legally blind exemption for the year starting April 1, 2026, is presumed eligible for the equivalent 2027 exemption. That presumption ends if the State Tax Assessor finds the property no longer eligible.

Some nonresident business members skip returns

For tax years starting January 1, 2026, qualifying full-year nonresident business members do not need a Maine income tax return. Their Maine income must come only from electing pass-through businesses that file and pay the entity tax. For individuals, the member credit plus entity estimated payment must cover the full Maine tax liability. A joint federal return includes the spouse's income in these tests. Nonresident trusts and estates qualify only when their covered Maine income comes entirely from these businesses and is not distributed to beneficiaries.

Air monitoring gets equipment funding authority

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine can transfer up to $256,994 to buy two ozone calibrators and one ozone monitor. Only personnel funds left after salary, benefit, and other obligations can be used. The State Budget Officer must recommend the financial order, and the Governor must approve it. The transfer authority ends June 30, 2027.

Courts can fund technology and facilities

In fiscal year 2026-27, the courts can transfer about $2.051 million from unused personnel funding for technology and operations. Uses include iPads and licenses, case-management contracts, utilities, interpreters, travel, and a new records system. A separate transfer of up to $109,448 supports Lincoln District Court improvements, higher lease costs, and file storage. Both transfers require balances remaining after salary, benefit, and other obligations are met. Financial orders require the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Courts gain service and legal-fee funding

Court transfer authority rises from $750,000 to a $1.25 million ceiling in each of fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27. It supports temporary clerks, marshal contracts, court-appointed child advocates, interpreters, and mental health services. Transfers require money left after salary, benefit, and other commitments, a State Budget Officer recommendation, and Governor approval. For 2026-27, Maine provides $342,760 for adult treatment recovery courts in Oxford County and Region 6. It also provides $1.99 million once for lawyer fees in weapons restriction and civil commitment cases, without specifying representation eligibility.

Dedicated fund supports marine research boats

The law creates a dedicated fund for marine science research, boat operations, and boat maintenance. Unspent money remains available rather than expiring. Funding sources include research and boat-use fees, private contributions, federal funds and awards, and other support. No fee rates or funding total are stated.

Fire training facilities keep unspent funding

Any unspent part of an existing $1.5 million fire services appropriation carries forward after fiscal year 2025–26. The carried funds must support fire-service training facilities. The law does not state how much remains unspent.

Funding flexibility for protecting Maine plants

In fiscal year 2026-27, Maine's agriculture department can transfer up to $150,000 for early detection and eradication of invasive stiltgrass. It can separately transfer up to $25,000 to update Maine's official threatened and endangered plants list. Both transfers use personnel balances remaining after salary, benefit, and other obligations are met. Each requires the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Land use planning gets public-engagement support

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine's agriculture, conservation, and forestry department can transfer up to $40,000 for land use planning engagement. The money supports stakeholder input before updates to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Only personnel funds left after salary, benefit, and other obligations can be transferred. The transfer requires a State Budget Officer recommendation and Governor approval.

Maine authorizes two more district judges

Beginning July 1, 2024, the authorized number of Maine District Court judges rises from 44 to 46. The Governor appoints judges, subject to legislative committee review and legislative confirmation. Appointees must belong to the Maine bar. At least one judge must come from each district, with additional resident judges required in specified districts.

New funding tools support inland fisheries

A new inland fisheries program supports native fish conservation and sport fisheries as resources allow, and can accept donations. Its work includes research, habitat restoration, training, technology, communications, and partnerships. A separate fund receives $2 from each fishing license sale for hatchery and feeding-station assessments, designs, repairs, and improvements. It can support specified overtime and legislatively approved additional hatcheries, but not general operations at existing hatcheries. The law does not state that fishing license prices increase.

Prisons can transfer money for operations

In fiscal year 2026-27, corrections can transfer unused personnel money for specified rising utility, training, and contractor costs. Caps are about $1.304 million for Maine State Prison and $1.182 million for Correctional Center. Long Creek's cap is $417,720; Mountain View's is $379,411, excluding water and sewer costs. Transfers can use only balances remaining after salary, benefit, and other obligations are met. Each requires the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Public safety gains targeted spending authority

For fiscal year 2026-27, Public Safety can transfer up to $292,500 for a firearms examiner contract. It can transfer up to $500,500 to replace eight 40-millimeter launchers and consoles at three emergency communications centers. Another $91,650 ceiling covers a K-9 office roof, Pittsfield barracks heat pump and generator, and Bangor barracks security system. Up to $540,000 can cover rising Criminal Justice Academy food service costs. All transfers require payroll and other obligations to be met first, a State Budget Officer recommendation, and Governor approval.

State tracks sexual assault evidence kits

Public Safety must operate a tracking system for all completed forensic examination kits, including kits from unreported offenses. Approved users record kit distribution, receipt, use, transfers, storage, and reporting status. The system must stay continuously available to approved users. Approved users must include licensed hospitals and providers performing sexual assault forensic exams.

Storm mitigation money stays available longer

The State Controller must keep unspent portions of a $400,000 Marine Resources capital appropriation available after fiscal year 2025-26. The money remains available until spent. It must cover Maine's share of federal Public Assistance 406 Mitigation costs tied to January 2024 storm damage.

Trust funds support public land protection

The law creates two dedicated funds that keep unspent money for public land stewardship. One funds monitoring and defense of conservation easements; using principal requires Treasurer approval for exceptional needs, including legal defense. The other supports public reserved lands Maine owns outright or jointly. When the related management fund exceeds $5 million, excess money can be temporarily invested in the management trust. Using that trust’s principal requires a director’s request, commissioner approval, and consultation with the Treasurer.

More care funding for veterans' homes

Maine Veterans' Homes receive about $1.386 million in one-time funding for fiscal year 2026-27. The supplemental payment supports residents receiving MaineCare. The money goes to the homes, not directly to residents.

More community help for older adults

The law provides $3 million in one-time General Fund support for older adults' unmet needs in fiscal year 2026-27. Area agencies deliver community-based services and programs in each of Maine's coordinated community program areas. The law does not set an individual payment amount.

More emergency food help for households

After a qualifying declared state emergency lasts more than 10 days, the Governor may fund nonprofit food groups. The law raises the maximum distribution from the stabilization fund from $400,000 to $4 million. Food banks, pantries, soup kitchens, and other qualifying groups must provide food free to low-income, indigent, or unemployed people. The $4 million limit is a funding ceiling, not a guaranteed household benefit.

More funding for behavioral health services

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine provides $319,931 from the General Fund for MaineCare behavioral health costs and enrollment. It adds $204,810 from the General Fund and $19,844 from the Fund for a Healthy Maine. Those additions cover Maine's higher share of costs under the federal Medicaid matching formula. Another $44,460 supports certain community behavioral health services' cost-of-living adjustments. These funding changes do not set new individual eligibility or benefit amounts.

More funding for covered residential care

The law increases fiscal year 2026-27 MaineCare funding to reflect health care costs and enrollment. It includes about $2.080 million in ongoing support for Private Non-Medical Institution room and board. It also provides $2.08 million in one-time support for that purpose. The law does not set individual benefit amounts or change eligibility in this provision.

More funding for developmental disability services

For fiscal year 2026-27, the Developmental Services Waiver gets about $12.877 million for costs and enrollment. It also gets $12.88 million in one-time funding and about $3.507 million for Maine's higher Medicaid matching share. The separate Waiver—Supports program gets about $2.879 million for costs and enrollment. It also gets $2.88 million in one-time funding and $782,710 for Maine's higher matching share. All listed amounts come from the General Fund; these provisions do not set individual benefit amounts.

More funding for Maine's vaccine program

Maine provides $10 million from other special revenue funds for the Universal Immunization Program in fiscal year 2026-27. The funding aligns the program's budget with available resources. This provision does not change individual eligibility, vaccine costs, or services received.

More funding for MaineCare disability reviews

Maine funds more disability determinations for MaineCare applicants in fiscal year 2026-27 under federal Public Law 119-21. The law provides one recurring allocation and a separate one-time allocation. Each includes $295,000 from the General Fund and $304,222 in federal funds. This funding does not guarantee approval of an application.

Psychiatric center can replace security equipment

For fiscal year 2026-27, the health department can transfer up to $290,664 to replace Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center's cameras and access controls. Only personnel funds left after salary, benefit, and other obligations can be used. The State Budget Officer must recommend the financial order, and the Governor must approve it.

State tracks gaps in home care

The state health data organization and health department must develop systems to track gaps in specified home and community services. They compare approved care with care actually received and estimate gaps for specified services without prior approval when data exists. Annual reports to lawmakers are due November 15, starting in 2027. Report data is exempt from the specified health-data disclosure provision. This tracking does not itself change eligibility or approved care amounts.

Regional teams get building code funding

The state transfers $1 million from its Budget Stabilization Fund for a three-year regional building code enforcement pilot. The Office of Community Affairs Housing Opportunity Program receives the money. The transfer must occur by June 30, 2027.

School buses get student safety upgrades

Maine provides about $5.92 million in one-time funding for school safety measures. The work includes crossing arms and door sensors that prevent pinching on nearly 1,700 Maine school buses.

Agriculture upgrades keep their unspent funding

The law carries unspent agriculture upgrade funding from fiscal year 2025-26 into fiscal year 2026-27. This covers balances from $550,000 for the feed, seed, and fertilizer database and $1.5 million for licensing and inspection software. It also preserves the unspent balance of $750,000 for upgrades to the Cony Road facility in Augusta. The money remains restricted to those projects; these carryovers are not new appropriations.

Funding flexibility for land-use planning tools

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine's agriculture department can transfer up to $159,643 from unused personnel funding. The money supports land-use tracking software, mapping expenses, and human resources equipment and licenses. Salary, benefit, and other obligations must be covered first. A financial order requires the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Highway fund receives additional state money

The state transfers $13.029115 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund to the Highway Fund by June 30, 2027. The money goes into the Highway Fund’s unallocated balance. The law names no specific projects or direct household payments.

Longer payment window for state fund

Payments to the fund established under 5 MRSA §13080-Q can continue for tax years beginning before July 1, 2031. The previous cutoff was July 1, 2026. Payments cannot be made for tax years beginning on or after the new cutoff. The provision does not identify payment amounts, sources, or beneficiaries.

Military training can cover electricity costs

In fiscal year 2026-27, Maine's defense department can transfer up to $76,000 to cover military training electricity costs. The money must come from personnel balances left after salary, benefit, and other obligations are met. The transfer requires the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Public-facing state systems keep modernization funds

At June 30, 2026, up to $750,000 in qualifying unspent funds must carry forward for Secretary of State modernization. The money supports public-facing systems and services in the Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions. It must come from personnel and operating funds remaining after financial commitments and budget adjustments. The money remains available until spent.

State mail service can serve nonprofits

Maine's central postal service must be available to all state departments and agencies. It can also serve the University of Maine System, local governments, educational institutions, and qualifying Maine nonprofits. Service for those additional organizations is allowed, not guaranteed. Households do not gain direct access through this provision.

Longer financing window for energy projects

The law extends a qualifying energy project's approval deadline from January 1, 2020, to before January 1, 2040. That approval is required before issuing revenue-backed securities for energy distribution or generating systems. A separate approval-certificate authority continues through July 31, 2040. The law also allows securities to refinance outstanding revenue-backed securities.

Acute care hospitals get extra payments

The health department must make one-time supplemental payments to acute care hospitals using a consistent, reasonable allocation method. Payments can occur in fiscal year 2026–27. Totals cannot exceed appropriated money, available hospital-tax revenues, or federal payment limits. Payments tied to the hospital-tax base-year change require federal tax-waiver approval.

Benefit offices get technology compliance funding

The law provides one-time technology funding to meet requirements of federal Public Law 119-21. The Office for Family Independence receives about $14.04 million, and the Office of MaineCare Services receives about $1.85 million. The totals include federal and other special revenue funds. This provision does not set new household payments or eligibility rules.

Child care assistance keeps unspent funds

The Maine Child Care Affordability Program can accept donations and grants from any source. Unspent program funds must carry into the next fiscal year instead of expiring. The law does not change family eligibility or set a new household payment.

Community health centers get pharmacy grants

Federally qualified health centers receive access to $4 million in pharmacy grants in fiscal year 2026–27. Centers must submit a budget and plan to improve pharmacy services and access to affordable prescriptions. The health department awards funds equitably based on cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and nearby pharmacy services. Unawarded money carries forward for later grants.

Emergency backup supports food assistance payments

During a qualifying declared state emergency lasting more than 10 days, the Governor can release up to $30 million. The Governor must coordinate with the health department, which receives stabilization fund money to administer SNAP and WIC benefit payments. The department must return the money if federal funding later becomes available. This authority does not change household benefit amounts or eligibility.

Higher funding for direct care rates

The law funds cost-of-living adjustments for specified MaineCare direct care services and state-funded home and community-based services in 2026-27. One funding line provides $270,572 in state money. Another provides about $5.05 million state, $15.33 million federal, $75,046 in federal block grants, and $379,339 in other special revenue. The money supports provider rates; it does not set individual worker raises or payments to people receiving care.

Higher MaineCare provider rates need approval

Maine must seek federal approval for a 3.07% rate increase for certain MaineCare services, planned for January 1, 2027. The state must also seek approval for higher inpatient hospital rates beginning July 1, 2026. The hospital increase depends on appropriated funds and actual hospital-tax revenue. Any increase funded by changing the hospital-tax base year also requires federal tax-waiver approval.

Higher payments for home care providers

Starting January 1, 2027, payment rates rise 3.07% for specified state-funded home and community-based direct care services. Fiscal year 2026-27 funding includes about $1.195 million and $3.602 million from the General Fund for covered care adjustments. Another allocation provides $576,969 from the General Fund and $130,538 in federal funds for covered direct-care adjustments. These changes fund providers and services, not direct household checks.

More care funding for veterans’ homes

MaineCare pays Maine Veterans’ Homes nursing facilities per covered resident, per day. Rates cover allowable costs, account for specified differences from nonveterans’ facilities, and receive matching annual inflation adjustments. Residential care facilities also receive a one-time payment in fiscal year 2026–27. That payment covers the gap between MaineCare payments and allowed costs in their latest filed cost reports. The department can seek federal approval and matching funds; no rate or total payment is stated.

More funding for disability waiver services

For 2026-27, Maine's brain injury waiver receives $559,878 in state funding, plus $560,000 once for costs and enrollment. Another $139,613 covers Maine's higher share of Medicaid costs for fiscal year 2027. The waiver for other related conditions receives $159,965, plus $160,000 once for costs and enrollment. That waiver also receives $58,422 for Maine's higher Medicaid cost share. These additions support waiver services, without specifying individual payments or eligibility changes.

More funding for MaineCare nursing homes

The law adds funding for MaineCare nursing facilities in 2026-27 to address health care cost and enrollment trends. It provides about $7.32 million state, $13.39 million federal, and $1.32 million from other special revenue. A separate increase adds about $3.51 million in other special revenue spending authority to match expected expenses. These changes support nursing facilities, without setting resident payments, eligibility, or out-of-pocket costs.

More funding for MaineCare nursing homes

The law provides one-time funding for MaineCare nursing facilities in fiscal year 2026-27. It includes about $7.30 million from the General Fund, $13.68 million in federal funds, and $1.34 million in other special revenue funds. The money addresses health care costs and enrollment trends, rather than creating payments to residents.

More funding for Medicare drug costs

The law adds state funding for annual Medicare Part D rate increases in 2026-27. Medical Care—Payments to Providers receives about $6.29 million, plus about $2.34 million once. Maine's Low-cost Drugs To Maine's Elderly program receives $201,749, plus $74,959 once. These funds support program and provider costs, but do not specify individual drug savings or out-of-pocket charges.

More funding for mental health services

For 2026-27, community MaineCare mental health services receive about $2.8 million in state funding, plus $2.8 million once. Another $848,691 covers Maine's higher Medicaid cost share for fiscal year 2027. Certain community behavioral health services receive $137,617 to match MaineCare cost-of-living adjustments. Private psychiatric hospitals receive $313,665 state and $482,843 federal, plus one-time amounts of $156,832 state and $248,315 federal. These additions support services and providers, without specifying patient payments or eligibility changes.

More mental health funding for children

For 2026-27, MaineCare's child mental health program receives about $2.08 million in added state funding. A separate one-time payment provides another $2.08 million. These increases address health care cost and enrollment trends. Another $629,451 covers Maine's higher share of Medicaid costs for fiscal year 2027. The funding supports children's services, without setting household payments or changing eligibility.

More pharmacy services at community clinics

The law provides $4 million in one-time state funding for 2026-27 to federally qualified health centers. The money helps these community clinics develop and expand pharmacy services. It also supports access to affordably priced prescriptions, but does not promise an individual discount.

More support for developmental disability services

For 2026-27, the law adds about $2.16 million in state funding for MaineCare developmental services. It adds a separate $2.16 million once to address health care cost and enrollment trends. Another $526,909 covers Maine's higher share of Medicaid costs for fiscal year 2027. The Lifespan Waiver receives $10,953 for the same state-share change. These funds support services and providers, without specifying individual payments or eligibility changes.

More support for veterans' nursing homes

Maine Veterans' Homes serving MaineCare residents receive a one-time supplemental payment for 2026-27. It includes about $1.19 million in state funding and $1.84 million in federal funding. Daily payment rates also receive $505,794 state, $861,554 federal, and $87,367 from other special revenue to address cost differences. These funds support care provided to MaineCare members; they do not create direct resident payments or change eligibility.

Reserve funding helps protect MaineCare services

The state transfers $31.25 million from General Fund surplus to the MaineCare Stabilization Fund by June 30, 2027. The fund helps prevent service losses or higher member costs caused by funding shortages or changes in law or policy. This transfer does not create automatic payments to members.

Temporary higher payments for Medicare doctors

The law funds a temporary 2.5% increase tied to the Medicare physician fee schedule under federal Public Law 119-21. One-time funding for 2026-27 includes about $1.66 million in state money and $3.59 million in federal money. It also includes $144,535 in federal block grants. The increase supports physician payments; the law does not specify a change in patient charges.

Emergency funding to administer heating aid

During a qualifying declared state emergency lasting more than 10 days, the Governor can release up to $1.5 million. The Governor must coordinate with Maine State Housing Authority to use stabilization fund money for emergency heating aid administration. The Authority must return the money if federal funding later becomes available. This authority does not set household payment amounts or guarantee eligibility.

Funding keeps an apprenticeship staff position

The State Controller must transfer up to $89,082 in fiscal year 2026-27 and $93,500 in fiscal year 2027-28. The money continues one temporary staff position in the Maine Department of Labor's apprenticeship program through June 18, 2028. It supports program staffing, not direct payments to apprentices or households.

Funding transfers support education computer systems

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine allows transfers of up to $449,614 for education computer systems. Limits are $74,000 for free or reduced-price meal applications, $363,114 for grant management, and $12,500 for adult education data. Transfers can use only staff-cost balances left after pay, benefits, and other obligations are met. Each transfer requires the State Budget Officer's recommendation and the Governor's approval through a financial order.

More flexible preschool special education funding

Preschool funds can cover general education costs incurred while providing eligible children’s special education services. The commissioner can also pay professional and administrative support costs. These uses apply when school districts take responsibility for finding eligible children and providing their required education and related services. Districts must carry unspent preschool allocations forward and use them to reduce next year’s net preschool expenses.

More funding kept for education supports

By June 30, 2027, the state transfers $16.651457 million from unused, uncommitted school aid balances to Child Development Services. Of that amount, $12.6 million goes to its special revenue account and $4.051457 million to its General Fund account. Unused General Fund money in the Education Department's Special Services Team also carries into the next fiscal year. That carried-over money must serve the same purpose.

State spending authority for adult education

The education commissioner can spend and distribute money for adult education under the state's adult education law. This supports program funding, not direct payments to students. The law does not specify an amount.

Corporate foreign income gets partial subtraction

Maine allows a subtraction equal to 50% of qualifying net tested income from controlled foreign corporations. The income must be included in federal gross income under Section 951A and subject to allocation among taxing locations. Related expenses and deductions count in the calculation. The law also changes the amount used in the sales-factor calculation that divides income among locations.

More employment tax revenue reaches fund

Beginning in 2026, the state assessor deposits 100% of the prior year's employment tax increment into the designated account. The money is then paid to the fund named in law. The deposit is due by July 15 each year, compared with a 50% share for years before 2026. The law does not specify a direct household benefit.

Higher surcharges for building permit applicants

The surcharge for covered building work or a new use rises from 4¢ to 6¢ per occupied square foot. Applicants pay an extra 2¢ per square foot for construction, reconstruction, repairs, or renovations subject to the charge. The total fee for reviewing a public-school renovation plan cannot exceed $450.

Some existing property tax exemptions end

The property tax exemptions covered by the amended sections end for tax years beginning April 1, 2027. Owners receiving those exemptions lose that tax protection. The provided text does not identify the exemptions or give enough information to calculate the tax change.

Tax-driven home transfers face exemption limits

Beginning April 1, 2027, property transferred to obtain a homestead exemption cannot receive that exemption. Transfers between spouses are excepted. Applicants who obtain an exemption through a fraudulent transfer face a fine of $100 or up to twice the taxes evaded, whichever is greater.

Veteran property exemption definition drops family wording

The law changes the veteran definition used for the referenced property tax exemption. It now uses the definition in Maine's resident property exemption law. It removes wording expressly including some family members who qualified under the former reference. The supplied provision does not identify the full group affected or an effective date.

Business entity overpayments earn no interest

Beginning January 1, 2026, Maine does not pay interest on overpayments of the pass-through entity tax. The restriction removes interest payments, not the underlying overpaid tax amount.

Maine can leave federal housing enforcement

Maine Office of Community Affairs can end the state's role in the federal manufactured housing enforcement program after appropriate notice. Its director can also delegate program work or hire outside administrators. The law does not require residents or businesses to take action.

Less budget funding for MaineCare providers

The law reduces MaineCare provider payments' Other Special Revenue Fund allocation by about $1.35 million for fiscal year 2026-27. The change matches projected spending and available money. This provision does not identify a specific cut to any member's coverage or payment.

Higher license fees for manufactured housing communities

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030, manufactured housing community license fees are $16 per home site. This replaces the former limit of up to $6 per site. A base fee of up to $60 also applies. Operators pay these fees for license applications, expansions, and renewals.

School units pay for development supports

Child Development Services can charge school units for support, assistance, and resources from regional service hubs. School units must pay invoices from available special education and related-services funds, subject to state and federal law. Fees must be set by rule and may reflect service type, intensity, duration, frequency, and related costs. The law does not charge families directly.

Victim services gain ongoing state support

For fiscal year 2026-27, Maine provides $3 million in ongoing support to replace reduced federal Victims of Crime Act grants. A separate one-time allocation for the same grant losses is reduced by $3 million. Any ongoing grant money not needed for that purpose goes equally to statewide domestic violence and sexual assault support coalitions. Maine also provides one-time funding of $2 million for domestic violence services and $1 million for sexual assault services. These funds support services, not specified direct payments to victims.

State investment earnings move between funds

Unless a different rule applies, internal service funds lose investment interest to the General Fund, including related cash-pool earnings. Stabilization fund earnings are split based on its month-end balance and 18% limit. Below that limit, 50% goes to stabilization, 25% to state employee post-employment benefit trusts, and 25% to land conservation. At the limit, the benefit trusts get 75%, and the land conservation fund gets 25%.

State deposits must consider bank ratings

Before depositing state money, Maine's Treasurer must consider the bank's latest federal Community Reinvestment Act rating. The rule gives community reinvestment a role in state banking choices and adds a required review. It does not directly change household accounts or borrowing eligibility.

MaineCare funding shifts and rate-setting support

For fiscal year 2027, Maine adjusts provider funding because the state's share of the blended federal match increases. General Fund support rises $13.389785 million and Fund for a Healthy Maine support rises $471,555. Federal Expenditures Fund support falls $20.587755 million and Federal Block Grant support falls $3,386, without stated changes to member eligibility or benefits. In 2026–27, DHHS can also transfer up to $1.1 million in unused personnel funds to support MaineCare rate decisions. Salary, benefit, and other obligations must be met first, and the transfer needs a budget officer recommendation and the Governor's approval.

Psychiatric hospital payments shift after reform

DHHS must allocate supplemental payments to private psychiatric hospitals using a consistent, federally approved method. Payments cannot exceed the smaller of available appropriations and federal aggregate payment limits. Twice-yearly pools use incremental hospital taxes owed in 2025–26 and 2026–27; a one-time 2025–26 pool uses 2024–25 taxes. Supplemental payments stop when psychiatric hospital reimbursement reform begins. The related spending then supports direct reimbursement for inpatient and outpatient care.

Veterans' home supplemental funds face limits

Once the specified rate-calculation process begins, leftover 2021-law funding for Maine Veterans' Homes cannot make supplemental payments. The state can instead use that remaining money for other purposes in the same part of this law. The provision does not state the unused balance or impose a payment duty on residents.

Manufactured housing oversight shifts and strengthens

The Maine Office of Community Affairs takes over the Manufactured Housing Board's duties, including community licensing, safety standards, complaints, and reciprocity. Existing rules and procedures remain until the office changes them. The office sets installation standards and prepares warranty forms with the Attorney General's Department for dealers and manufacturers. It can conduct, delegate, or administer needed inspections and investigations, and qualify inspection agencies only when they meet its standards. Applicants and license holders can face license denial, nonrenewal, or authorized discipline for breaking office rules.

Town penalties spare veterans' tax reimbursements

The law removes veterans' property tax exemption reimbursements from the listed sources used to collect municipal late-filing penalties. The deduction order includes tree-growth tax reimbursements, followed by homestead exemption reimbursements. Existing penalties remain $50 plus $10 per late day for places with 2,000 or fewer people. Larger places face $100 plus $20 per late day. This does not establish a change in residents' property tax bills.

School funds carry forward with payment limits

Unused funds from the covered education funding package in fiscal year 2026–27 carry forward for the same purpose. Other unused program balances can help avoid payment reductions when a funding component’s state obligation exceeds its budget. But Maine is not required to pay general school aid above the amount appropriated for that year. Separately, $1.117457 million in unused career and technical education bond debt funds carries from 2025–26 into the next year.

Hospitals use revised tax payment calculations

For the state fiscal year starting July 1, 2025, covered hospitals pay two revenue-based tax amounts. Each equals 3.25% of the relevant net operating revenue, multiplied by one-half; the calculations use fiscal years ending in 2022 and 2024. The 2022-based installment is due November 15, 2025. Prior payments toward the second half of the 2025 fiscal-year tax count against the 2024-based amount. For state fiscal years starting July 1, 2026, or later, the taxable year is the hospital fiscal year ending in 2024.

Maine updates its federal tax reference

Maine's tax code now references federal tax-code amendments through December 31, 2025, rather than December 31, 2024. This updates the federal rules used as a starting point for Maine taxes. This provision alone does not show whether a particular taxpayer pays more or less.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Drew Gattine

    Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 1,914 • No: 1,754

Senate vote • 4/9/2026

ENACTMENT

Yes: 18 • No: 16

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HTH-1027 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 71

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

INDEFINITELY POSTPONE SCS-650

Yes: 20 • No: 14

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

INDEFINITELY POSTPONE SDS-651

Yes: 19 • No: 15

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

INDEFINITELY POSTPONE SES-654

Yes: 20 • No: 14

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

INDEFINITELY POSTPONE SAS-647

Yes: 18 • No: 16

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

PASSAGE TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED

Yes: 18 • No: 16

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HFH-1012 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HKH-1017 to CAH-996

Yes: 76 • No: 69

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HMH-1019 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HSH-1026 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 69

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HNH-1020 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 69

House vote • 4/8/2026

ADOPT CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 71

House vote • 4/8/2026

Enactment

Yes: 76 • No: 71

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

ACCEPT MAJORITY OUGHT TO PASS AS AMENDED REPORT

Yes: 19 • No: 15

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HQH-1023 to CAH-996

Yes: 76 • No: 70

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HUH-1028 to CAH-996

Yes: 76 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HBH-1008 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HCH-1009 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 71

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HDH-1010 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 71

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HEH-1011 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 70

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HLH-1018 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 71

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HAH-1007 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HPH-1022 to CAH-996

Yes: 76 • No: 67

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HIH-1015 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 72

House vote • 4/8/2026

acc otp-am by ca "a"

Yes: 76 • No: 73

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HGH-1013 to CAH-996

Yes: 75 • No: 73

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HJH-1016 to CAH-996

Yes: 78 • No: 71

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HRH-1024 to CAH-996

Yes: 76 • No: 68

Senate vote • 4/8/2026

TABLE UNTIL LATER

Yes: 14 • No: 20

House vote • 4/8/2026

INDEF PP HOH-1021 to CAH-996

Yes: 77 • No: 71

Actions Timeline

  1. Signed by Governor, ACTPUB Chapter 650

    4/10/2026
  2. PASSED TO BE ENACTED, in concurrence. Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 927 Yeas 18 - Nays 16 - Excused 1 - Absent 0

    4/9/2026Senate
  3. PASSED TO BE ENACTED. ROLL CALL NO. 791(Yeas 76 - Nays 71 - Absent 3 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    4/9/2026House
  4. Reports READ.On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin the Majority Ought to Pass as Amended Report ACCEPTED. Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 919 Yeas 19 - Nays 15 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 Bill READ ONCE. Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) READ. On motion by Senator STEWART of Aroostook Senate Amendment "C" (S-650) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) READ. On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin Senate Amendment "C" (S-650) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED. Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 920 Yeas 20 - Nays 14 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 On motion by Senator STEWART of Aroostook Senate Amendment "D" (S-651) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) READ. On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin Senate Amendment "D" (S-651) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED. Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 921 Yeas 19 - Nays 15 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 On motion by Senator CYRWAY of Kennebec Senate Amendment "E" (S-654) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) READ. Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin moved to INDEFINITELY POSTPONED Senate Amendment "E" (S-654) Motion by Senator BENNETT of Oxford to TABLE UNTIL LATER IN TODAY'S SESSION FAILED Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 922 Yeas 14 - Nays 20 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 Motion by Same Senator to ADJOURN FAILED Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 923 Yeas 15 - Nays 19 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 Subsequently, Senate Amendment "E" (S-654) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 924 Yeas 20 - Nays 14 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) ADOPTED On motion by Senator BENNETT of Oxford Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) RECONSIDERED On motion by Senator GROHOSKI of Hancock Senate Amendment "A" (S-647) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) READ. On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin Senate Amendment "A" (S-647) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED. Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 925 Yeas 18 - Nays 16 - Excused 1 - Absent 0 Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) ADOPTED. Under suspension of the Rules, READ A SECOND TIME. PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) in concurrence PREVAILED Roll Call Ordered Roll Call Number 926 Yeas 18 - Nays 16 - Excused 1 - Absent 0

    4/8/2026Senate
  5. On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "N" (H-1020) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "N" (H-1020) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 783(Yeas 78 - Nays 69 - Absent 3 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "T" (H-1027) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "T" (H-1027) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 784(Yeas 77 - Nays 71 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative TUELL of East Machias, House Amendment "P" (H-1022) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative TUELL of East Machias REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "P" (H-1022) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 785(Yeas 76 - Nays 67 - Absent 7 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative QUINT of Hodgdon, House Amendment "Q" (H-1023) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "Q" (H-1023) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 786(Yeas 76 - Nays 70 - Absent 4 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative QUINT of Hodgdon, House Amendment "R" (H-1024) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "R" (H-1024) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 787(Yeas 76 - Nays 68 - Absent 6 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative DRINKWATER of Milford, House Amendment "U" (H-1028) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "U" (H-1028) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 788(Yeas 76 - Nays 72 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was ADOPTED.ROLL CALL NO. 789(Yeas 77 - Nays 71 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)Under suspension of the rules, the Bill was given its SECOND READING without REFERENCE to the Committee on Bills in the Second Reading.The Bill was PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    4/8/2026House
  6. On motion of Representative BLIER of Buxton, House Amendment "G" (H-1013) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative BLIER of Buxton REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "G" (H-1013) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 774(Yeas 75 - Nays 73 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative SOBOLESKI of Phillips, House Amendment "I" (H-1015) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative SOBOLESKI of Phillips REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "I" (H-1015) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 775(Yeas 77 - Nays 72 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn, House Amendment "J" (H-1016) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "J" (H-1016) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 776(Yeas 78 - Nays 71 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "K" (H-1017) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "K" (H-1017) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 777(Yeas 76 - Nays 69 - Absent 5 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "L" (H-1018) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "L" (H-1018) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 778(Yeas 77 - Nays 71 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "O" (H-1021) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "O" (H-1021) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 780(Yeas 77 - Nays 71 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "M" (H-1019) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "M" (H-1019) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 781(Yeas 77 - Nays 72 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative FAULKINGHAM of Winter Harbor, House Amendment "S" (H-1026) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "S" (H-1026) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 782(Yeas 78 - Nays 69 - Absent 3 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)

    4/8/2026House
  7. Reports READ.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook, the Majority Ought to Pass as Amended Report was ACCEPTED.ROLL CALL NO. 767(Yeas 76 - Nays 73 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)The Bill was READ ONCE.Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.On motion of Representative TUELL of East Machias, House Amendment "A" (H-1007) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ. Representative TUELL of East Machias REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "A" (H-1007) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 768(Yeas 77 - Nays 72 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn, House Amendment "B" (H-1008) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "B" (H-1008) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 769(Yeas 77 - Nays 72 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn, House Amendment "C" (H-1009) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "C" (H-1009) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 770(Yeas 78 - Nays 71 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn, House Amendment "D" (H-1010) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "D" (H-1010) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 771(Yeas 78 - Nays 71 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative SMITH of Palermo, House Amendment "E" (H-1011) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative SMITH of Palermo REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "E" (H-1011) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 772(Yeas 78 - Nays 70 - Absent 2 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)On motion of Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn, House Amendment "F" (H-1012) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was READ.Representative CHAPMAN of Auburn REQUESTED a Roll Call. More than one-fifth of the members present expressed a desire for a roll call, which was ORDERED.On motion of Representative GATTINE of Westbrook House Amendment "F" (H-1012) to Committee Amendment "A" (H-996) was INDEFINITELY POSTPONED.ROLL CALL NO. 773(Yeas 77 - Nays 72 - Absent 1 - Excused 0 - Vacant 1)

    4/8/2026House
  8. The Bill was REFERRED to the Committee on APPROPRIATIONS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS in concurrence

    2/12/2026Senate
  9. Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs suggested and ordered printed. The Bill was REFERRED to the Committee on APPROPRIATIONS AND FINANCIAL AFFAIRS.Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    2/12/2026House

Bill Text

  • Amendment C-A (H-996), adopted by House & Senate

  • Enacted

  • Introduced

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