I am writing to comment about the administration in Augusta that is working to obstruct anything that will help our state.

First, I cite Dirigo Health. This is being hailed as the answer to the uninsured in Maine. Perhaps it will be, but we see no mention anywhere that it is really one of the biggest new welfare plans to hit Maine in our lifetime. The whole plan is based on money taken from the general fund and an outrageous new tax on the health plans of those who already have health insurance. This new 4.1 percent tax hits on July 1, 2004. An average family plan will be taxed $41 per month.

Secondly, I point out the increase to the gasoline tax the last Legislature has passed. If this was not enough, our Democrat Legislature has passed a law to automatically increase the tax every year. We will no longer even hear debate about it.

Today, we read about the incredible efforts the governor is taking to damage the prospects of the racino in Bangor. They have spent more than $450,000 to try to discredit the developer and prevent him from getting a license to operate.

The people of Maine need a state government that is working for us to create jobs. New tax schemes are not the answer. We need real leadership, not a reckless tax monger creating new government plans to bleed us further.

Carl Duchette, East Poland

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