An article in the Kennebec Journal today alludes that a state tax increase is inevitable given the 190 million dollar state shortfall.

Maine is already the second highest taxed state in the nation at 14.0% (state & local), second only to Vermont. The state’s per capita income in 2006 was $31,931, dropping 4 places in one year to 39th. The cost of electricity is 38% higher than the national average (commercial and industrial). Healthcare costs are ridiculous…and so are home heating costs. Mainers need a break, not an increase. If the Legislature doesn’t get their act together to prioritize and cut spending I may consider moving to New Hampshire.