Maine Governor Janet Mills Signs Historic Budget, Introducing Paid Family Leave Program

Governor Janet Mills signed the final piece of the two-year state budget, which includes a new paid family and medical leave program and replaces a property tax freeze program for Mainers aged 65 and older. The budget also includes revamped business tax credits, investments in affordable healthcare and housing, income tax cuts for retirees, and funding for education and emergency services. However, the implementation of these programs will be delayed until the fall due to the budget not receiving the necessary two-thirds support for immediate effect. Governor Mills praised the budget as historic and balanced, while Republicans criticized it for raising taxes and increasing spending.