Voters would decide whether Maine can borrow $55.6 million for farms

The state could issue up to $55.6 million in bonds for agricultural programs. The listed uses include support for agricultural funds and businesses, a building tax exemption program, and a shared application for the department’s assistance programs. Voters must approve the bond issue before these provisions take effect. Voters would decide the bond question at the November election following passage. If approved, these provisions would take effect 30 days after the Governor proclaims the result.

An owner could apply for a property tax exemption on the added value of a qualifying agricultural building. The building must serve an active farm or horticultural operation. Covered buildings include certain employee housing and buildings used for horse boarding, maple syrup, or honey production; sale buildings, riding academies, and dude ranches are excluded. The owner must apply and the assessor must approve the application. If the land or building changes to a nonagricultural or nonhorticultural use during the exemption, taxes on the exempted value for those years would be due. The exemption would apply to property tax years starting on or after April 1, 2026. Owners must apply by April 1 within one year after construction or rebuilding is complete.

The agriculture commissioner would direct staff to study barriers to assistance programs and report results and recommendations. The study would cover the department’s financial assistance programs for farmers and food producers. The study must include at least two listening sessions with farmers or food producers and examine shared applications and possible program consolidation. The commissioner would submit the report by January 15, 2027.