A recent internet search of “highest taxed states” reveals Maine is tied for ninth place with Delaware, at 12.4%. So why have our elected officials approved a new payroll tax on hardworking Mainers?
This tax is set to begin on Jan. 1, 2025 and will be 1% of wages, for now. The rate can be increased at any time, and we have no say in the matter. The income generated will be used for expanded paid leave beginning January 2026. The state has budgeted $25 million to start the program, and the payroll tax will continue funding it.
Many individuals have paid leave from their employers already. For the most part, this fund will cover employee leave from employers who don’t offer paid leave, and Mainers will pay for it. In addition, a fee of 5% will be deducted from the tax revenue to pay for an administrator to oversee the fund.
Like Social Security and Medicare, there will be an employer match. The amount to my employer could be an additional $184,128 per year; we are not talking pocket change. What measures will employers have to take to come up with these additional funds?
We voted against our elected officials overseeing our electricity. I don’t believe they should be in charge of deciding who is entitled to paid time off either.
Let’s contact our representatives and stop this madness before it takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
Stacie Field, Poland
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