This article was originally published in FOX13/WGME.
PORTLAND, Maine — A candidate for governor released her plan to make life more affordable in Maine Tuesday.
Hannah Pingree, one of five Democrats running for governor, released her plan Tuesday, which covers four main areas: housing, health and child care, wages and property taxes.
Pingree, a former Maine House Speaker and daughter of Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, wants to invest $100 million a year in affordable housing development and preservation.
She says her housing plan also focuses on speeding up permitting and taking on private equity firms artificially driving up rents and forcing families to move.
“We are truly at a pivotal moment,” Pingree said. “We can’t thrive in a state where too many can’t make ends meet, where they’re priced out of their hometowns. I know that Mainers don’t want this for their future, and I also know Mainers will not give up on their fellow Mainers.”
In addition to $100 million a year for affordable housing, Pingree also says she would launch a public health insurance option and make child care more affordable.
Her plan to boost wages includes investments in workforce training and clean energy jobs.
She also says she wants to level the playing field for property taxes by doubling the homestead exemption and building on Maine’s new millionaire’s tax.
