The Maine State Building and Construction Trades Council says a recent fund-raising letter sent by the Maine Republican Party to licensed trades people around the state is misleading and appears to be intentionally deceptive. The letter implies that if question 1 on the June Ballot is upheld sales taxes could be expanded to electrical, plumbing, and oil burner repair.

Question 1, An act to implement tax relief and tax reform, is a law currently on the books. A “yes” vote would repeal the law whereas a “no” vote would allow the tax relief law to stand.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 1253 Business Manager Jeff Rose says: “We received a number of calls from people in our industry who were concerned that a new tax on electrical work would be imposed. That’s simply not true. After speaking with members of the legislature, it’s clear to us that if there is something to be afraid of here, it’s the repeal of LD 1495 through the Question 1 referendum. The truth is that if the law is repealed there will be nearly a 30% increase in the maximum income tax rate and 95% of Maine residents will pay higher incomes taxes.”

The Maine State Building and Construction Council represents approximately 4000 men and women in the State of Maine.