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May 13, 2009 Jay Finegan, 287-1445
House Republicans Riled Over Defeat of Bill to Lower Cost of Health Insurance

AUGUSTA – House Republicans reacted with deep disappointment today to the defeat of a bill that would have given Maine residents the ability to purchase health insurance from companies operating in other New England states. The bill, if approved, could have benefited thousands of Mainers by saving them thousands of dollars a year in insurance premiums.

By a vote of 82-63, the House voted to accept a committee report recommending that the bill, LD 290, be rejected. The vote largely followed party lines, although 10 Democrats and one independent legislator joined with Republicans in support of the bill.

“The Democrats had no legitimate arguments against this bill,” said Rep. Josh Tardy, leader of the House Republicans. “This was all about common sense, expanding choice and saving people money. For years now we have offered solutions to Maine’s health insurance fiasco, and the Democrats have blocked every single one. They seem determined to keep Mainers shackled to a failed system.”

Rep. Jon McKane, the sponsor of the bill, said he was disappointed by the outcome and felt badly for the thousands of Maine residents who have lost the chance to find affordable insurance. “Our over-regulated health insurance market has simply priced coverage out of reach for the average working family in the state,” he said. “Maine families and individuals pay a higher percentage of their incomes for health insurance than anyone else in the country. Maine businesses are strained to the breaking point.”

In a floor debate lasting more than an hour, a dozen Republican legislators spoke out for the bill. Rep. Kerri Prescott (R-Topsham) said her constituents want a choice in health insurance products. “Mainers do not want to be held hostage to a system they can’t afford,” she said. “Insurance premiums here can be more than mortgage payments. If you want to stay with your Maine insurance, that’s fine; we are not taking anything away. But people are demanding that they be given an option.”

Rep. Bernard Ayotte (R-Caswell) said there is no reason to deny Maine residents the right to voluntarily purchase insurance in other New England states. “I don’t see why this is even controversial,” he said. “If it doesn’t work out, we can end it. Who are we to tell people they have to remain handcuffed to a system that has spiraled out of control? It makes no sense.”

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