Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP)

Maine

State Rundown 2/11: This Valentine’s Day, Conscious Decoupling Is Our Love Language

While some may be excited for a romantic Valentine’s Day this weekend, many state lawmakers are breaking up and decoupling from recent federal tax changes that are poised to leave states with revenue shortfalls – much like a bad date who forgets their wallet and asks you to pick up the tab.

What Did 2025 State Tax Changes Mean for Racial and Economic Equity?

The results are a mixed bag, with some states enacting promising policies that will improve tax equity and others going in the opposite direction.

State Rundown 2/5: Icy Roads Do Not Slow Tax Policy Debates

Despite wintry conditions across much of the country, that hasn’t stopped state lawmakers from debating major tax policy changes.

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States Can Push Back Against Reckless Federal Tax Policy. Here’s How.

January 22, 2026 • By Aidan Davis, Wesley Tharpe

States Can Push Back Against Reckless Federal Tax Policy. Here’s How.

They should take steps to protect and boost their own revenues. And they should take a second look at their own tax cuts.

Maine Center for Economic Policy: Tax Conformity Decisions Will Shape Maine’s Future (Part 1: Maine Shouldn’t Fall for Policy Gimmicks)

December 22, 2025

Policy gimmicks in HR 1 disguise its true nature as a huge tax giveaway to the ultra-wealthy and big corporations — Maine should not compromise the future well-being of its residents to give tax breaks to the rich. Read more.

Linking to Tipped and Overtime Income Deductions Would Worsen State Shortfalls, Do Little to Help Workers

State deductions for tips and overtime are not only ineffective at supporting working-class people, it will come at a substantial cost to state budgets.

Conforming to the ‘No Tax on Tips’ Gimmick Just Got Riskier and Costlier for States

An unknown number of workers who previously were assumed to be ineligible for the tax break may nonetheless claim it.

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Local Vacancy Taxes: A Tool but Not a Panacea

November 17, 2025 • By Rita Jefferson

Local Vacancy Taxes: A Tool but Not a Panacea

Vacancy taxes will not single-handedly solve problems in cities, but they are worth considering to address housing shortages, land use, and building thriving communities.

State Rundown 10/27: As Temperatures Cool Tax Policy Heats Up

States across the nation are debating how best to respond to costly new federal tax cuts.