Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1681

Introduced
4/18/23  
Refer
4/18/23  
Refer
4/20/23  

Caption

An Act to Encourage Residential Water Testing by Providing an Income Tax Deduction

Impact

The introduction of LD1681 is set to have a significant impact on state laws regarding tax deductions. By including water testing expenses as deductible items, the bill aligns with broader public health goals that emphasize the importance of safe drinking water. Encouraging homeowners to conduct testing through financial incentives could uncover potential contaminants in residential water supplies, prompting necessary remediation actions. Additionally, this bill could contribute to increasing awareness about the quality of public water systems.

Summary

LD1681 is a legislative act aimed at encouraging residential water testing by providing a state income tax deduction for associated costs. Specifically, it proposes to allow homeowners to deduct expenses incurred from water testing for residences they occupy beginning in the 2023 tax year. This measure is intended to promote public health and environment safety, allowing residents to ensure their drinking water quality meets health standards.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around LD1681 seems to be largely positive, with a bipartisan recognition of its potential benefits for community health. Stakeholders have applauded the initiative as an effective way to empower residents to take charge of their water quality. However, there may be some concerns regarding the administrative aspects of implementing the tax deduction and whether it effectively encourages widespread testing among all demographics.

Contention

Notably, while the primary aim of the bill is to bolster water testing among homeowners, there may be points of contention related to the financial implications for the state’s tax revenue. Opponents might argue that the deduction could lead to a decrease in state income tax income, necessitating a careful balance between public health initiatives and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding ensuring equitable access to testing resources, especially for low-income households who may be less likely to utilize available incentives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME S3457

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

ME S182

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

ME A1358

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

ME A4887

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

ME HB965

Income tax, state; deductions for Energy Star certified water heater.

ME LD1924

An Act to Encourage New Residential Housing Through a Tax Exemption for the Sale or Rental of Such Housing

ME LD554

An Act to Encourage Resident-owned Communities and Preserve Affordable Housing Through Tax Deductions

ME LD1894

An Act to Establish a Home Heating Income Tax Deduction

ME SB1423

Income tax, state; rates and deductions for businesses.

ME HB13

Reduces the amount of certain corporate income tax deductions and provides for continued effectiveness of reductions to certain corporate income tax deductions and exclusions (Item #16) (EN NO IMPACT GF RV See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.