I see the Sun Journal (even though denying it, editorial Jan. 9) didn’t waste any time crying foul over the loss of revenue precipitated by LD 1878 (if it passes), which would switch government notices from the print media to the Web.

Where was the Sun Journal, supposed watchdog for the people, when Gov. John Baldacci and other elected representatives snuck the Dirigo Health Reform Initiative through the Legislature?

That act provides for a surcharge (tax) on medical contributions for every person who buys their own health or supplemental health insurance, including retirees. Currently, that tax is $3.39 per month, for each person, to a maximum of $6.78 per family.

Anyone with half a wit knows that tax will grow like a weed in the garden.

The tax came about because Baldacci got the state into the insurance business, something it knows nothing about (see DHHS and Medicaid).

The numbers and the program don’t work, so guess who is going to bail it out. The only other states that gouge their residents with that tax are Hawaii, Illinois and California.

“Dirigo” – I lead. Oh, I get it… lead us all to the poor house.

The act needs to be repealed. Maine already taxes retirees’ pensions.

I think there should be more Republicans and fewer Democrats in state government, before every blade of grass gets taxed, surcharged, or fees added.

Gary Haskell, Auburn