Dear Editor:

Representative Stephanie Hawke has “turned out” (using words from a letter to the editor last week) to be a competent and knowledgeable voice, representing us in Augusta.

The Medicaid expansion question needs revision as written. The present language will expand Medicaid coverage for able bodied adults without dependents, and under age 65. The present system offers services for children, elderly and handicapped people. Money talks and the care and services for those eligible are priorities. It is not a welfare system, with the impression of being lazy, not wanting to work; it is a system to help those in need, those that are not able to care for themselves and not able to work. There is a price tag, yes, the cost of medical care and services is rising.

To say Rep. Hawke is trying to “influence” people into thinking that welfare meaning is derogatory is incorrect and far from the truth.

There are a growing number of eligible families here in our region and the state of Maine. The services for these families must continue and, if possible, improve. Insurance you pay for, Medicaid, the taxpayer pays for, no deductible. Financially, the state of Maine is the best it has been in years.

I feel Stephanie is competent, is relying on facts as presented. Her goal is for people to understand what they are voting for in November regarding this referendum question.

I also feel confident that I understand the complexities of insurance, Medicare/Medicaid and welfare. I worked for many years as a medical secretary for a local physician, served on the board of trustees for St. Andrews Hospital, and also on the St. Andrews Hospital Home Health Association board. I trust Rep. Hawke and her ability to vote the issue with the best result for our region and our state being her intent.

Representative Stephanie Hawke is an asset and an advocate for us in District 89. She is not a “disappointment.”

Laura Honey

Boothbay Harbor