News

Lawmakers approve plan for tax credits to expand child care

Lawmakers approve plan for tax credits to expand child care

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine lawmakers are closing in on final approval of a proposal to provide tax credits to help grow child care providers in the state.

The program is designed to support early care and education centers. Proponents of the bill said it would encourage administrators and teachers to improve their training through refundable tax credits.

The Maine House voted to enact the proposal last week. Bill sponsor Rep. Rebecca Millett, a Democrat of Cape Elizabeth, said the tax credit program “supports and grows these critical small businesses in Maine, offers relief for our families and improves the quality of care for our smallest children.”

The bill would also change current income tax credits for child care expenses incurred by families by increasing the maximum amount to 200% of the federal credit, supporters said.

The proposal is based on a program called the School Readiness Tax Credits program in Louisiana.

Latest Headlines

2 hours ago in Local

Maine State Police Lobby Against Red Flag Law

Fresh

Maine State Police and the state Department of Public Safety strongly oppose the Red Flag Law.

4 hours ago in Sports, Trending

Miami Heat’s Rozier, Trail Blazers’ Billups arrested in federal gambling probe, sources say

Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups have been arrested in connection with a federal investigation into sports betting, people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Thursday.

7 hours ago in Local

Platner Says Nazi Symbol Tattoo Has Been Covered

The first-time political candidate said he got the skull and crossbones tattoo in 2007

17 hours ago in Local

Minor Earthquake Hits Historic Maine Island

There have been about 170 recorded earthquakes in Maine since 1997.

18 hours ago in Local

Maine State Police Make Arrest in Child Sex Investigation

Police Car

Police are asking for public help to identify other people involved in the crime.