AUGUSTA, Maine — Laws aimed at helping Maine veterans and property taxpayers are among the measures going into effect Friday.
Among the new laws taking effect Aug. 1 is one that encourages private employers to hire veterans. Another ensures men and women who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan are eligible for a modest property tax exemption already available to other veterans.
“Some of the Legislature’s best work this session was focused on helping Maine’s veterans, including those returning from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Rep. Robert Saucier (D-Presque Isle), who co-sponsored both bills. “I’m pleased to see these measures go into effect.”
Saucier, who serves on the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Veterans and Legal Affairs, was also a co-sponsor of legislation that urges federal compensation to Maine National Guard veterans who suffered harm resulting from exposure to Agent Orange while training at the military base in Gagetown, New Brunswick.
A retired military officer, Saucier spent four years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force before serving another 24 years with the Maine Army National Guard. For nearly 20 years, he was among the guardsmen that spent two weeks each year training at Gagetown.
Another measure co-sponsored by the Presque Isle lawmaker provides relief to property taxpayers by increasing the Property Tax Fairness Credit for seniors and low- and middle-income Mainers.
“Property tax increases hurt those who can least afford it the most,” said Saucier. “This measure will lessen the impact of property taxes on our businesses and neighbors.”
Under the new law, the Property Tax Fairness Credit doubles from $300 to $600 for low- and middle-income residents under age 65 and increases from $400 to $900 for filers 65 years of age and older. It also expands eligibility to more renters.
Other new laws will crack down on unlicensed, predatory online lenders; hold the worst drunk drivers on Maine roads more accountable; and increase access to quality education from early childhood development through workforce training.
Non-emergency bills go into effect 90 days after the end of the legislative session in which they were passed.
