Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1774

Introduced
4/25/23  
Refer
4/25/23  
Refer
4/25/23  

Caption

An Act Exempting Certain Emergency Distributions and Emergency Savings Accounts from Taxation

Impact

The implications of LD1774 on state tax laws are significant, particularly in how it alters the treatment of distributions from retirement accounts and the earnings from emergency savings accounts. By excluding these amounts from state income calculations, the bill encourages residents to save for emergencies while preserving more of their income during financial hardships. The legislation is anticipated to foster greater financial security among Maine residents, particularly in uncertain economic times, thereby potentially reducing reliance on state-subsidized financial assistance programs.

Summary

Legislative Document 1774, also known as the 'Act Exempting Certain Emergency Distributions and Emergency Savings Accounts from Taxation,' aims to provide tax relief for specific types of monetary distributions and earnings associated with emergency savings. The bill, referencing the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, would exempt emergency personal expense distributions from adjusted gross income calculations in the state of Maine. This legislation is designed to alleviate financial burdens on residents who may need to access emergency funds from their retirement accounts without incurring additional tax penalties.

Sentiment

The general sentiment towards LD1774 appears to be positive, especially among supporters who advocate for financial assistance measures and broader tax relief initiatives. Advocates argue that this bill will support families struggling with unforeseen expenses by easing their tax burdens. However, there is some concern regarding the potential impact on state revenue. Critics might argue that tax exemptions could lead to a decrease in the tax base, which might limit funding for state services in the long run.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding LD1774 include discussions about the sustainability of tax exemptions and their long-term effects on state finances. Some members of the legislature have voiced their concerns about creating precedents for exemptions that could reduce overall tax income. Others suggest that while the immediate benefits to residents are clear, the legislature must consider the broader fiscal implications, ensuring that the state maintains sufficient resources to meet its obligations to all citizens.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB2090

Establishing the Kansas employee emergency savings account (KEESA) program to allow eligible employers to establish employee savings accounts, providing an income and privilege tax credit for certain eligible employer deposits to such employee savings accounts and providing a subtraction modification for certain employee deposits to such savings accounts.

ME HB2064

Establishing the Kansas employee emergency savings account (KEESA) program to allow eligible employers to establish employee savings accounts, providing an income and privilege tax credit for certain eligible employer deposits to such employee savings accounts and providing a subtraction modification for certain employee deposits to such savings accounts.

ME SB01020

An Act Establishing First-time Homebuyer Savings Accounts And A Related Tax Deduction.

ME SB01401

An Act Establishing Disaster Savings Accounts And A Related Tax Deduction And Credit.

ME HB1725

Revenue and taxation; savings accounts; insurance policy; primary residence; automobiles; accounts; expenditures; effective date.

ME HB05429

An Act Requiring The Banking Commissioner To Establish A First-time Homebuyer Savings Account Program And Establishing A Tax Deduction For Contributions To First-time Homebuyer Savings Accounts.

ME SB00904

An Act Requiring The Commissioner Of Revenue Services To Establish A First-time Homebuyer Savings Account Program And Establishing A Tax Deduction For Contributions To First-time Homebuyer Savings Accounts.

ME HB06876

An Act Establishing First-time Homebuyer Savings Accounts And A Related Tax Deduction And Credit.

ME HB05344

An Act Establishing First-time Homebuyer Savings Accounts And A Related Tax Deduction And Credit.

ME SB00182

An Act Establishing A First-time Homebuyer Savings Account And Tax Deduction.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.