Governor Paul LePage signed a biennial budget early Tuesday morning, ending a three-day state shutdown.

Negotiations on the budget went late into Monday night, with several meetings in the Governor's Cabinet Room between Governor LePage, House Speaker Sara Gideon, Republican House Minority Leader Ken Fredette, and other lawmakers. Press Secretary to the Governor, Adrienne Bennett said in a media release that negotiations went much faster after LePage pledged on Monday afternoon to sign a budget that eliminated an increase in the lodging tax from 9 percent to 10. percent.

Legislators voted on the bill early Tuesday morning with the House voting 147-2 and Senate 35-0.

The Governor thanked lawmakers for passing a budget that doesn't increase taxes.

"I am pleased to announce the state government will reopen and assume normal operations,' Governor LePage said in the media release. "Since it's the Fourth of July, Ann and I hope all Mainers enjoy a wonderful day with families and loved ones in celebration of our great country's Independence Day."

 

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