I hope that the voters of Maine pass Question 1 in November — the Universal Homecare ballot initiative. Older Mainers, veterans and those with disabilities deserve the freedom to choose how and where they live and age instead of being forced into nursing homes.
Family care-giving can be physically, emotionally and financially draining. Question 1 will support thousands of Mainers who are caring for their loved ones in their homes. I have cared for my parents in their home and it is hard work.
There is a lot of misinformation out there about Question 1, by design. The nursing home lobby paid for misleading television and radio ads to confuse and scare voters. They are trying to protect their own interests — keeping every bed in their facilities full. Primarily they have tried to confuse voters about the tax funding. To be clear, according to the text of the initiative, the universal home care program would be funded by narrowing a tax loophole that only benefits the wealthiest 2.6 percent of Mainers — those making more than $128,400 a year in individual income. Those individuals who earn less than $128,400 won’t pay a dime in new taxes.
It makes good economic sense. It is estimated to cost $100,000 annually to pay for nursing home care, while full-time home care averages less than $50,000.
No one should be forced from their beloved home, and everyone deserves to age with dignity and independence. Passage of Question 1 would bring relief to so many Maine families.
Maria Silva, Lewiston
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