AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives gave initial approval Wednesday to a bill that would establish a checkoff box on Mainers' tax returns to support hunger prevention.
LD 1046, sponsored by Rep. Mo Terry, D-Gorham, would create a checkoff provision on Maine income tax forms to give taxpayers the option of contributing to the emergency food assistance program administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF).
Terry's bill would also establish the Emergency Food Assistance Program Fund in order to manage the generated revenue. The fund would support grants for food pantries and community hunger prevention programs around the state, including Good Shepard Food Bank, Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program, Wayside Food Programs and others.
"Ultimately, this bill is a way to address a deeply felt need in Maine, and it does so by encouraging folks to donate what extra they have to help others," said Terry. "Hunger and food insecurity carry an immense stigma. Especially if you're experiencing it for the first time, like so many Mainers did this year. To me, this checkoff option is just like making dinner for a sick friend or community member in need of a little extra care. It provides a way for more of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity to access meals without all of the added stress and fear often associated with asking for help."
The measure now faces votes in Senate.
Terry, who represents part of Gorham, is serving her third term in the Maine House of Representatives. She serves as House chair of the Taxation Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Terry], c. 812-1111