Senate advances President Daughtry property tax relief bill

AUGUSTA – A proposal to reform Maine’s property tax system continues to gain momentum. On Tuesday, the Maine Senate voted to support LD 1770, legislation sponsored by Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick) to establish a statewide property tax relief task force. The bill advanced with unanimous support. 

The bill, which also received a unanimous vote from the Legislature’s Taxation Committee earlier this session, has now cleared an important hurdle with its initial passage in the Senate.

“I’m grateful to see the Senate come together to move this bill forward,” said Senate President Daughtry. “Property taxes are squeezing working families, older Mainers, and young people trying to put down roots. This bill is about delivering long-term solutions—not just patches. This is about building a tax system that’s fair and sustainable.” 

As amended by the Taxation Committee, LD 1770 would create the Real Estate Property Tax Relief Task Force, a group tasked with conducting a thorough, data-driven review of Maine’s property tax structure. The task force will identify how the state can better support municipalities and provide meaningful, equitable relief to residents across Maine.

“This task force is a vital step toward addressing the deep inequities in our property tax system,” said Senator Nicole Grohoski (D-Ellsworth), Senate Chair of the Taxation Committee. “By taking a comprehensive, data-driven approach, we can ensure that reforms truly work for Maine people—from rural towns to growing cities. I’m proud of the bipartisan support this bill has received and look forward to the work ahead.”

The bill previously included a proposed expansion of the Property Tax Fairness Credit, but that provision was removed in committee to maintain a clear focus on systemic, long-term reform.

With Senate approval on initial votes, LD 1770 heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration.