Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD1732

Introduced
4/22/25  
Refer
4/22/25  

Caption

An Act to Allow a Municipality to Waive the Excise Tax on an Antique Automobile Owned by a Person 65 Years of Age or Older

Impact

If enacted, the bill would alter existing tax regulations at the municipal level regarding antique automobiles. It would empower local governments to implement tax waivers for qualifying individuals, which could potentially lead to a significant reduction in tax revenue from this sector. Municipalities would need to assess their financial capabilities to offer such waivers while ensuring that they can still meet their budgetary commitments and services for residents.

Summary

LD1732, titled 'An Act to Allow a Municipality to Waive the Excise Tax on an Antique Automobile Owned by a Person 65 Years of Age or Older', aims to provide financial relief to elderly individuals who own antique automobiles by allowing municipalities to exempt them from the excise tax on these vehicles. This bill is particularly designed to support senior citizens, recognizing their contributions to the community and alleviating some of their financial burdens, especially concerning vehicle ownership.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around LD1732 seems to be supportive, particularly among those advocating for senior citizen rights and benefits. Proponents argue that this measure could encourage more seniors to maintain and enjoy their antique vehicles without the financial strain of excise taxes. However, there could be concerns among local governments regarding the financial implications of lost tax revenue, which could lead to a mixed reaction from municipal officials.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise around the implementation and administrative aspects of the bill. Opponents may voice concerns regarding the potential inconsistencies in how municipalities decide to adopt and enforce such waivers. There might also be discussions on whether this bill, while beneficial to certain groups, could have negative consequences for local budgets, especially in smaller municipalities that rely heavily on excise tax revenue.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1381

An Act to Create Fairness in Maine's Motor Vehicle Excise Tax by Basing the Tax on the Sale Price

ME LD1168

An Act to Adjust Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Rates

ME LD966

An Act to Align the Automobile Title Requirements with Those of Antique Automobiles

ME LD1118

An Act to Reduce the Sales Tax on Automobiles

ME LD2000

An Act to Change the Taxation of Rental Tangible Personal Property to Make It Consistent with the Predominant Method in Other States' Rental Industry Laws for Sales and Use Tax

ME LD1486

An Act to Exempt Tractor Trailer Trucks from the Excise Tax

ME LD102

An Act to Increase the Length of Registration for Antique Autos

ME LD1822

An Act to Amend the Specialty License Plate Laws and Extend the Moratorium on Approval of Specialty License Plates and Remove the Authority of Municipalities to Issue Driver's Licenses

ME LD2072

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Motor Vehicles

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.