AUGUSTA — A 12-member task force that’s under legislative orders to find $25 million in savings in the Maine budget is kicking off its work, which will continue through the fall. Its chairman is making one thing clear: It won’t be looking at tax or fee hikes to balance the budget.

The panel, which held its inaugural meeting today in the State House, was created this spring to analyze state departments and agencies with the goal of prioritizing services, consolidating functions and eliminating duplication and inefficiencies to achieve at least $25 million in savings.

Chairman Sawin Millett, who heads the state Finance Department, told the panel it will not be looking for “fee or revenue enhancers,” fund shifts or gimmicks.

The task force is expected to focus on larger programs.


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