Maine Democrats Add Millionaire Tax to Governor's Final Budget

Proposal faces GOP opposition as lawmakers work late into the night on spending plan

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:50am

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Democrats on the Maine Legislature's budget committee have moved to add a new millionaire tax to Governor Janet Mills' final spending plan, drawing opposition from Republican lawmakers. The proposal was still being voted on late into the night as the legislature works to finalize the state's budget.

Why it matters

This last-minute addition of a millionaire tax to the governor's budget plan reflects the ongoing partisan tensions in the Maine legislature as they work to pass a final budget before the end of the legislative session. The tax proposal could face an uphill battle, as Republicans have voiced strong opposition.

The details

The Democratic-controlled budget committee voted late Tuesday to include the new millionaire tax as part of Governor Mills' final spending plan for the state. The tax would apply to individuals earning over $1 million per year. Republican lawmakers have criticized the proposal, arguing it will drive high-income earners out of the state.

  • The budget committee vote took place late on Tuesday evening.
  • Lawmakers were still voting on the full budget package after 10 p.m.

The players

Janet Mills

The current Governor of Maine, a Democrat who is serving her final term.

Maine Legislature

The state's legislative body, which is currently controlled by Democrats in both the House and Senate.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let the wealthy avoid paying their fair share. This millionaire tax is a necessary step to fund critical state priorities.”

— Representative Sarah Gideon, Democratic Budget Committee Member

“This is nothing more than a last-minute tax grab that will drive job creators out of Maine. We cannot support this reckless proposal.”

— Senator Jeff Timberlake, Republican Budget Committee Member

What’s next

The full Maine Legislature will need to vote on the final budget package, including the proposed millionaire tax, before it can be sent to Governor Mills for her signature.

The takeaway

The addition of a millionaire tax to the governor's final budget plan underscores the ongoing partisan divide in the Maine legislature. While Democrats argue the tax is necessary to fund state priorities, Republicans warn it could hurt the state's economy. The fate of the proposal remains uncertain as lawmakers work to finalize the budget.