AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives voted to enact a bill Monday sponsored by Rep. Richard Evans, D-Dover-Foxcroft, that would help encourage job growth in Maine's forestry industry.
"The forestry industry is a critical component of our states economy, especially in rural areas," said Evans. "This bill would encourage and reward the hiring of younger workers in order to help solidify the futures of small, woodland businesses. Through these incentives, well be able to strengthen the workforce in this sector for years to come."
As amended, LD 1919 creates an income tax credit for timber harvesting businesses that hire new employees in Maine. The new hires must be full-time employees, spend at least 90% of their work time in Maine and be covered by the Employment Security Law. If LD 1919 is passed into law, qualifying businesses would be eligible to receive $7,500 in the first tax year per qualified employee. The credit would be $5,000 for the second tax year they are employed and $3,000 for the third tax year.
The bill now moves to the Special Appropriations Table.
Evans is a physician and surgeon and represents the communities of Atkinson, Brownville, Dover-Foxcroft, Lake View, Medford, Milo and Orneville Township in Piscataquis County. He serves on the Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Evans], c. 812-1111