On Nov. 7, Maine voters approved the expansion of MaineCare, i.e., Medicaid, for individuals exceeding the poverty income guidelines up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level, which is currently $1,005 per month. That meant that as many as 70,000 folks in Maine would have an opportunity to have health insurance. What a great opportunity.
Now, after 60 percent of Maine folks voted “yes,” Gov. Paul LePage stated he will not allow the expansion to happen until the Legislature produces the funds to satisfy the state’s financial responsibility. Only the uninformed would assume that an expense of that magnitude could be accomplished using only existing revenues.
This is another step to guarantee health care coverage to every American and, yes, it comes with a “price.”
Those who voted “yes” on this issue must encourage and support an appropriate tax increase to meet the state’s financial obligation. It is up to the governor and the Legislature to fund the state’s obligation so 70,000 Maine citizens can receive adequate health care.
It is time for people who voted “yes” to put their money where their mouths are; and it is time for those who voted “no” to accept the will of the people.
But, the most important element, in regard to this voter decision, is that the governor and the Legislature must make it happen because the people have spoken.
Edmund Lewis, Farmington
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