LePage stumps for business zone plan
Gov. Paul LePage wants to give more state assistance to large businesses and reduce the authority of labor unions at Brunswick Landing and the former Loring Air Force base in Limestone through his “Open for Business Zones” proposal.
The Portland Press Herald reported the plan would provide large businesses relocating to Maine substantial tax and financing incentives and would exempt workers at Loring and Brunswick Landing from fees unions can assess for representing members and non-members in collective bargaining agreements.
The plan received quick criticism from Democratic leaders controlling the House and Senate, who said weakening unions in those zones would lead to lower-wage jobs.
For businesses with more than 1,500 employees — of which there are 13 — and that invest more than $50 million, the bill would grant a 100% corporate tax credit for 10 years followed by a 50% tax credit for the next 10. The plan would also provide sales tax exemptions and reimbursements for as long as 20 years and provide subsidies offsetting energy costs to businesses under the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Trust Fund.
While the bill has ardent opposition from Democrats, it will likely become a campaign issue leading into the November election. Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud and independent Eliot Cutler both oppose the plan.
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