Maine's legislative body is poised to address a proposal that would substantially increase the salaries of both the governor and state lawmakers. The proposed changes, which have been approved by the appropriations committee, aim to modernize compensation to reflect current economic realities.
Currently, Maine's governor receives an annual salary of $70,000, the lowest in the nation. This figure has remained stagnant since 1987. The new proposal seeks to raise the gubernatorial salary to $125,000, bringing it in line with the compensation of cabinet members and staff. This increase, however, would not take effect until 2028, after the current governor's term concludes.
In a separate bill, legislators' salaries would also see a significant boost. Their current compensation of $25,000 for a two-year term would increase to $45,000. Supporters of the measure argue that these raises are necessary to attract and retain qualified individuals for public service.
The image above depicts Maine's State Capitol building in Augusta, where the Legislature will deliberate on these proposed salary adjustments. (eyecrave productions via Getty Images)
Rep. Sawin Millett (R-Waterford) has expressed strong support for the increases, characterizing them as "long overdue." Both proposals received endorsement from the Legislature’s Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee on Wednesday, paving the way for further legislative action.
