AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Republican Party is moving Gov. Paul LePage's chief legislative goal forward by proposing the phase-out of the state income tax to Maine voters through a citizen's initiative.
During a weekend meeting of the state GOP committee, leaders authorized state party chairman Rick Bennett to undertake the effort, with the goal of getting the question on the ballot next year, after Democrats scuttled LePage's bill.
Bennett says the loss to the state of about $1.5 billion in income tax revenue can be offset.
"If you phase out the income tax over time and end it on a date certain, I think the combination of economic growth that ensues, plus exercising some fiscal discipline - and not even necessarily Draconian cuts to state government, but rather just putting a lid on the spending increases - can make up the $1.5 billion shortfall," Bennett said.
The question would also seek voter approval for tougher welfare reform.