Officials claim tax plan could boost Maine tourism industry

KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine – The Maine Restaurant Association says the state’s tourism industry could improve through deductions included in the Republican tax plan.

MRA representative Greg Dugal tells WCSH-TV the plan would have a 20 per cent deduction for locally-owned hotels and restaurants. The deduction would be on the business’ first $315,000 of income. So, the broadcast station reports a business that makes $200,000 in income could receive $40,000 free of taxes.

Jean Ginn Marvin, of the state Innkeeper’s Association, says hotels could use the money on hiring new staff or improving the facility.

She says she met with Republican Sen. Susan Collins to discuss the bill days before the senator gave her support.

The Senate passed the tax bill early Wednesday. The House is expected to back the bill later in the day.

___

Information from: WCSH-TV, http://www.wcsh6.com