The appropriation limitations set forth in section 5721-A are applicable to the appropriations and revenues of plantations.

PART H

Sec. H-1. 36 MRSA Pt. 11 is enacted to read:

PART 11

STATE TAX POLICY GOALS

CHAPTER 931

TAX BURDEN REDUCTION GOAL

§7301.__Tax reduction goal

It is the goal and policy of the State that by 2015 the total state and local tax burden be reduced to the national average total state and local tax burden, as determined by the United States Census Bureau's most recent tax burden analysis, adjusted by the assessor to reflect the State's unique expenditure tax relief programs.

§7302.__Progress reporting

1.__Independent commission; membership.__In consultation with the Legislative Council, the Governor shall establish an independent commission to separately assess and report on the progress made by the State, municipalities, counties and school administrative units, respectively, in achieving the tax burden reduction goal established in section 7301.__The Governor shall appoint as members to serve on the commission persons with pertinent knowledge and expertise in economic development, government finance, tax policy and business matters.__The Governor shall designate a member to serve as chair of the commission.__The commission may seek and receive outside funds to fund the costs of the commission.

2.__Indicators; annual report.__With reference to Title 5, chapter 142; Title 20-A, section 15671, subsection 1; and Title 30-A, sections 706-A and 5721-A, the commission shall develop and apply specific, quantifiable performance indicators against which the progress in achieving the tax burden reduction goal established in section 7301 can be measured.__On January 15, 2006 and annually thereafter, the commission shall report to the