LD2258 creates a refundable income tax credit for investments in Minor League Baseball facilities to keep teams in the state. Businesses investing at least $1 million in stadium improvements between 2023 and 2026 can receive a tax credit of 1.33% of their investment per year, up to $133,000 annually and $1.995 million total over 15 years. The bill includes reporting requirements, ensures fair wages for workers, and mandates recapturing credits if the facility ceases operations within five years.
The Maine State House of Representatives passed LD2258 on April 17, 2024 by a vote of 92 to 52. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill enacts state subsidies for professional and semiprofessional sports teams, which is beyond the limited purpose and scope of government. It's nothing but theft from the taxpayer, and Maine ought not to disparage people of their income or property.
United States Constitution
Fifth Amendment
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
United States Constitution
Ninth Amendment
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
United States Constitution
14th Amendment Section 1
All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
