AUGUSTA — Republican Gov. Paul LePage says the elimination of 300 jobs at a Verso paper mill in Jay underscores the need to reduce the state’s taxes and energy costs.

Verso Paper Corp. said Thursday that it will significantly scale back production in Maine and lay off 300 workers at its mill in Jay. The company cited declining demand for coated paper as well as Maine’s high energy costs and local property taxes.

In a letter to House Speaker Mark Eves and Senate President Michael Thibodeau on Friday, LePage criticized lawmakers for blocking his energy and tax proposals and urged them urged them to “come out from under the dome” to see what’s happening in the real world.

He says lawmakers must “cut the theatrics” and address the energy and tax issues driving away businesses.