During tax season I would like to remind Maine homeowners and renters to take advantage of Maine's "circuit breaker" program. Last year many Mainers did just that, however, many who would have qualified and received a check did not apply! You may qualify if you do not have a spouse or dependents and your 2005 income was $77,000 or less. If you do have a spouse and dependents, you could have made up to $102,000 in 2005 and qualify. Also to receive a refund, your 2005 property tax must have exceeded 4% of your income. Renters qualify if the rent they paid in 2005 exceeded 20 percent of their income. It is important to note that seniors do not have to meet those requirements when their household income is below $12,700 for those living alone or below $15,700 for those living with a spouse or dependent. The deadline for filing applications is May 31. The forms are available at town offices, libraries, post offices and Area Agency on Aging and community Action Program offices. This is a straight forward program that puts taxpayer dollars back into taxpayer's pockets. I hope that you will take advantage of this program and apply.

The Maine Film Office is working again with a New York-based independent feature film. The producers had been interested in Maine last summer, looking for coastal locations for this drama. The Film Office has recently learned that Maine as well as Rhode Island is being considered for their filming. During the Business Research and Economic Development's Budget presentation for the Maine Film Office with Appropriations Thursday, Commissioner Richardson reported that the tax credit that passed last session to help recruit film makers to Maine has gained their attention.

Rep. Sue W. Austin represents District #109 - portions of Gray, North Yarmouth and Pownal