124th MAINE LEGISLATURE
LD 1424 LR 1356(02)
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine To Establish a Unicameral Legislature
Fiscal Note for Bill as Amended by Committee Amendment "   "
Committee: State and Local Government
Fiscal Note Required: Yes
             
Fiscal Note
Current biennium cost increase - General Fund
Potential future biennium savings - General Fund
Potential future biennium savings - Other Special Revenue Funds
Referendum Costs Month/Year Election Type Question Length
Nov-09 General Referendum Standard
The Secretary of State's budget includes sufficient funds to accommodate one ballot of average length for the general election in November.  If the number or size of the referendum questions requires production and delivery of a second ballot, an additional appropriation of $107,250 may be required.
Fiscal Detail and Notes
If approved by the voters, the Legislature would realize General Fund savings beginning in fiscal year 2014-15.  The projected savings for a 1st Regular Session and a 2nd Regular Session are summarized below:
1st Regular Session 2nd Regular Session
2014-15 2015-16
Legislative salaries and benefits ($1,219,396) ($1,046,877)
Legislator's expenses and constituent services costs ($329,700) ($270,900)
Elimination of staff and certain offices ($2,548,556) ($2,700,696)
Elimination of remain All Other of Senate budget ($546,257) ($540,307)
Total Estimated Cost (Savings) ($4,643,909) ($4,558,780)
The amount of the net savings may vary up or down from these amounts depending on the policy decisions made in reaction to the changes in the Legislature.
The amount of payments made through the Maine Clean Election Fund would also be reduced beginning in fiscal year 2013-14.  The amount of savings which could be realized is estimated to be $1,949,000.