Maine lawmakers enact legislation to fill $30 million of state’s $438 million budget hole

Maine lawmakers OK bill to fill part of budget gap

AUGUSTA, Maine — The Maine House and Senate have given their final approval to a bill that fills $30 million of a state budget shortfall.

The bill approved by overwhelming majorities Thursday was sent to Gov. John Baldacci, who will sign it. But more work must be done to fill a looming $438 million budget gap.

Sen. Bill Diamond, co-chair of the Appropriations Committee, said Wednesday’s action doesn’t affect state services. Diamond, a Windham Democrat, said the committee worked through the summer and fall to find the savings to shore up part of the budget gap.

Republican Sen. Richard Rosen of Bucksport, who also serves on the committee, said the largest chunk of savings comes from a reduction in bond debt service.