The engine for Pat LaMarche's plan for economic growth is her universal health care plan.

Establishing universal health care in Maine will be the equivalent of hoisting a giant sign over the state that reads "OPEN FOR BUSINESS." Once companies realize that one of their biggest operating expenses will be covered, they will move here in droves.

We'll also see an explosion of entrepreneurship, as Mainers who want to go into business for themselves will no longer be held back by the daunting reality of losing their health care benefits when they leave their current employment.

Pat's universal health care plan also will reduce property taxes because property tax revenue currently pays for the health insurance premiums of municipal employees.

By easing property taxes, we will encourage the growth of new businesses in Maine.

Pat's plans to establish graduate schools in Maine to train M.D.'s, dentists and pharmacists will also boost the economy. New health care schools will create jobs and brings millions of dollars to Maine. These schools employ workers at all levels, from professors and administrators to cafeteria workers. Plus, the National Institutes for Health (NIH) awards grants to U.S. medical schools ranging from $1.2 to $449 million dollars each year. Without these graduate medical schools, Maine is missing out on millions of dollars that could stimulate our economy.

With Pat LaMarche's common sense approach to healthcare and job creation, life in Maine will improve for businesses, workers, families and retirees. Mainers will be healthier and so will our economy.

More information

• Lowering taxes through common sense healthcare
• Article: LaMarche calls for medical, dental, pharmacy schools
• Pat's speech calling for medical, dental and pharmacy schools
• Physician Calls for Single-payer Healthcare
• Article: LaMarche well-received when she announces medical school plan
• Pat's State of the State speech