Governor Signs President Daughtry Property Tax Relief Task Force into Law
AUGUSTA – A proposal to reform Maine’s property tax system has officially become law. In June, the Maine Legislature voted to support LD 1770, legislation sponsored by Senate President Mattie Daughtry (D-Brunswick) to establish a statewide property tax relief task force. The resolve passed with two thirds bipartisan support as emergency legislation.
“I’m proud to see this legislation officially become law,” said Senate President Daughtry. “Property taxes have been a growing burden on working families, older Mainers, and young people trying to stay in our communities. With this law, we’re launching a task force that will take a hard look at our property tax system—what’s working, what’s not, and how we can do better. This isn’t about short-term fixes. It’s about building a tax system that’s fair, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of Maine people. If you’ve ever opened your property tax bill and felt your stomach drop, this task force is for you.”
“I hear firsthand from residents who are concerned about property taxes and the limits of existing relief programs,” said Taylor Burns, Brunswick Town Assessor. “As assessors, we have a defined role guided by state law and shaped by market data. I’m encouraged that Maine is taking a comprehensive look at this, and I know assessors will be interested and engaged in the work of the task force.”
“As frontline officials, municipal leaders across Maine have an understanding of the increasing pressure placed on the property taxpayers to fund desired and mandated school, county and municipal government services,” said Catherine Conlow, Maine Municipal Association Executive Director. “The opportunity to meet with other officials and leaders, discuss the issues, and work collaboratively on solutions that address these burdens, while enabling the local government functions to continue to be provided is a must and an effort MMA looks forward to supporting.”
As amended by the Taxation Committee, LD 1770 created 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. The task force will be supported by a contractor and produce recommendations for statewide reforms.
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.
LD 1770 was signed by the Governor on July 1, 2025, and will go into effect immediately. Appointments will be made up of members of the public, business and municipal leaders, tax assessors, and tax law professionals. They will be made by the Governor, Senate President, and Speaker of the House based on this criteria.