Wording Proposed by Secretary of State for Home Health Referendum
The proposed wording of the ballot question is, "Do you want to create the Universal Home Care Program, which will provide services to people with disabilities and senior citizens who need daily assistance in their homes, funded by a new tax of 3.8% on individual income over $128,400?" The initiative was drafted by the Maine People's Alliance and was presented during the second regular session of the 128th Legislature but was never given a public hearing. The title of the bill is, "An Act to Establish Universal Home Care for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities."
Comments on the wording of the question will be accepted through June 15. The wording could be revised, based upon those comments.
MMA has not yet taken a position on the referendum question. The Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the Maine Hospital Association along with several other organizations have formed a coalition to oppose the referendum. It is anticipated that MMA will take a position prior to or at the Annual Meeting in September (September 7-9) in Bar Harbor. Member input will be widely sought prior to a position being taken.
At a press conference on May 3, opponents of the ballot initiative focused on their claim that the proposed law was unconstitutional and would violate federal medical privacy laws.
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