AUGUSTA– A proposal that would provide tax credits for student loan payments to graduates of Maine’s colleges awaits the governor’s signature following approval from the Legislature.

Last night the Maine Senate voted 27-8 in favor of the “Opportunity Maine” bill, which would provide tax credits to students who live and work in-state following graduation, or their employer.

On Tuesday the bill received unanimous support in the House. Gov. John Baldacci has previously stated his support for the bill.

The Opportunity Maine initiative began last year as residents gathered signatures to bring the bill to the Legislature. Under the bill the maximum tax credit would be $2,100 a year or $8,400 total for a graduate of a four-year college.