Maine Gov. Mills defends tax hikes, budget amid $470M shortfall

During her State of the Budget address, Governor Janet Mills defended her proposed budget for FY 2026-2027, highlighting Maine's economic growth while facing a projected $470 million budget shortfall. Mills asserted that Maine's economy is thriving, outpacing national averages, despite acknowledging the financial challenges ahead, which include a $118 million deficit in current Medicaid spending. In addition to discussing the budget, Mills criticized a proposed red flag gun law that would empower families to petition for firearm removal, claiming it undermines the existing yellow flag law, which requires police involvement. This criticism sparked a response from the Maine Gun Safety Coalition, who argued that the yellow flag law has proven ineffective, particularly in light of recent tragedies. Mills emphasized her belief that protecting the public from gun violence is the government's responsibility, not that of private citizens. The address reflects a balancing act as she navigates criticism from both sides of the political spectrum regarding her budget proposals and gun control measures.