Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD843

Introduced
2/28/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Refer
2/28/23  

Caption

An Act to Improve Income Tax Progressivity by Establishing a New Top Individual Income Tax Rate

Impact

The enactment of LD843 would amend existing tax laws to introduce this new income tax rate, which is expected to have significant implications for state revenue generation and economic policy. By increasing the tax contribution from the wealthiest individuals, the bill aims to widen the tax base while providing potential economic relief for less affluent residents. Supporters believe this aligns with broader goals of enhancing economic stability and funding social programs, though there are concerns about its potential discouragement of high-income individuals from remaining in the state or investing in local businesses.

Summary

LD843 is an Act that seeks to enhance income tax progressivity through the establishment of a new top individual income tax rate. This proposed legislation aims to address issues of economic inequality by imposing higher taxes on higher income brackets, thereby redistributing wealth more equitably across different income levels. Proponents argue that such measures can provide necessary funding for public services and infrastructure that benefits the entire state, particularly for low and middle-income families who often bear a disproportionate burden of taxation under current structures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD843 is mixed, with supporters emphasizing the importance of fair tax contributions from wealthier citizens to fund essential services, such as education and healthcare, while opponents fear that higher taxes on the wealthy could stifle economic growth and lead to capital flight. This divide encapsulates broader societal debates about the role of taxation in achieving economic equality and the responsibilities of wealthier citizens in contributing to the common good.

Contention

Key points of contention include the economic implications of introducing a new top tax rate, with opponents arguing it could negatively impact the state's economic climate and discourage investment and entrepreneurship. The bill's supporters counter that it is a necessary step towards economic equity and sustainability, and debates have highlighted the challenges of balancing economic growth with social responsibility. There are concerns about how the additional revenue would be allocated and the effectiveness of such a tax structure in achieving its intended goals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1638

An Act to Lower the State's Individual Income Tax

ME LD1213

An Act to Reform Income Taxes by Reducing Tax Rates for Each of the 3 Income Tax Brackets

ME LD1671

An Act to Reduce the Income Tax to 4.5 Percent on the Lowest Tax Bracket and Remove Low-income Families from Taxation

ME LD1866

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study Fair, Equitable and Competitive Income Tax Policy for Maine's Families and Small Businesses

ME LD1946

An Act to Amend the Income Tax Law to Expand the Middle Tax Bracket, Increase the Lodging Tax and Increase the Short-term Automobile Rental Tax

ME LD1682

An Act to Increase Fairness in the Income Tax by Adding Higher Tax Brackets and Tax Rates

ME LD229

An Act to Bring Fairness in Income Taxes to Maine Families by Adjusting the Tax Brackets and Tax Rates

ME LD1231

An Act to Bring Fairness in Income Taxes to Maine Families by Adjusting the Tax Brackets

ME LD856

An Act to Phase Out the Income Tax

ME LD835

An Act to Phase Out the Income Tax

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.