Maine: Gov. LePage wants to tax non-profits; says they're "takers, not givers"

[cali]

Nonprofit organizations across the country are closely watching Maine as it considers becoming the first state to impose property taxes on hospitals, private colleges and summer camps under a plan being pushed by Gov. Paul LePage.

The Republican's contentious proposal has sparked a fiery debate in Maine over what impact nonprofits have on their communities and whether they should have to shoulder the costs for municipal services they consume. It's also raising questions about whether other states will follow suit if LePage's effort is successful.

"We are very much aware of it," said David Thompson, vice president of public policy for the National Council of Nonprofits. "I was talking to a group in Oklahoma about it and they looked horrified."

All states exempt nonprofits from property taxes either through laws or their state constitutions, Thompson said.

More at:

http://www.seattlepi.com/news/us/article/Maine-effort-to-tax-nonprofits-raises-eyebrows-6120627.php

[Stuart G]

1. Le Page is the taker...some hopitals give more than Le Page could ever think of...k and r.

[Gormy Cuss]

2. Why not churches?

In most Maine communities the majority of nonprofit landowners are churches and other exempt religious organizations. LePeu should include them, make some real revenue for the towns and state.

[wellstone dem]

3. the city I live in has a street light fee

As a way of getting churches and hospitals to have to pay for some of the city services. Apparently because its a fee and not a tax, everyone pays.

[ck4829]

4. "Not givers" - As in not giving to his campaign funds?

[fredamae]

5. As long as ALL

Non-Profits...like GOP PAC's et al are Included, if they Insist.

[avebury]

6. I hope that he includes churches

in the group of nonprofit organizations to be taxed.

[lumberjack_jeff]

7. Start with churches, then we'll talk more. n/t

[localroger]

8. I'm on board if they tax the NFL. /nt

[LiberalFighter]

9. How would Maine tax the NFL?

[Vinca]

10. Churches shouldn't be exempt if they're going to tax nonprofits.

In many cities and towns the churches sit on valuable property that is currently untaxed. Rather than raise taxes on all the other property owners, starting taxing churches.