BY AMY CALDER

Staff Writer

Sen. Lisa Marrache and her opponent, Brent E. Hutchins, agree on a lot of things -- that taxes are too high, that people who need energy assistance should be helped and that accessibility to affordable health care is a must.

But they differ on other issues, including a question on the November ballot asking if voters want to reject parts of a new law that changes the method of funding Maine's Dirigo Health Program. Health-insurance companies would be charged a fixed fee on paid claims, and malt liquor, wine and soft drinks would be taxed as a result.

Marrache, a Democrat, says that in these hard economic times, the state needs to help small businesses that have purchased Dirigo insurance for themselves and their employees.

"There are 620 small businesses that use this program for health-care coverage," says Marrache, a family physician. "Beer, wine and soda have led to a number of health issues such as obesity, dependency and liver problems, to name a few. A few pennies to offset the cost of health care is something I support. I look forward to finding out what other Mainers feel are important to them -- health care or sugar syrup or alcoholic beverages."

Hutchins, a Republican, says that with Maine having one of the highest tax burdens in the county, it is irresponsible for politicians to increase that burden.

"The new $70 million tax increase on health care and beverages shows how out-of-touch Augusta politicians really are," he said. "I support the citizens' right to overturn bad policies coming out of the Legislature, but I believe a change in leadership in Augusta will prevent reckless policies from coming forward in the future."

Marrache, 40, of Waterville, says one of the reasons she is seeking re-election to her Senate District 25 seat is that she wants to continue work she started last year as part of a Primary Care Commission. The commission is exploring what needs to be done in light of Medicaid and Medicare reimbursement restrictions affecting patients and forcing physicians to leave or close practices.

"We have a serious problem," she said.

Hutchins, 54, of Albion, a former teacher who for about 30 years has worked in his family's business, Marden's Surplus & Salvage, says he wants to help change Maine's anti-business climate and cumbersome state as well as national regulations that make teaching difficult.

"I have the time that is necessary to devote to the Senate to help to implement change," he says. "Time and dedication are incredibly important in changing the course of legislation in Augusta."

Both candidates say a struggling economy is one of the biggest issues facing the towns in District 25, with Marrache citing the high cost of food and lights, medication and gas.

"I would work to make these functions of daily living more affordable by strengthening efficient and proven programs at the state level and making those that are not more accountable and streamlined," she said.

Hutchins says the local economy can be stimulated when leaders make tough decisions to lower income and property taxes, expand affordable private health insurance options and lower energy costs.

"The new, good-paying jobs and opportunities will finally give residents of our communities the financial security they deserve," he said.

On jobs, Marrache says more than 95 percent of businesses in Maine are small businesses and she'll work hard to make entrepreneurship easier and successful.

"Large businesses and most small businesses are involved in organizations that draft legislation to address these issues and I will be open to them as long as the bill protects the business and the community it will impact," she said.

Hutchins believes Maine can attract jobs by removing road blocks keeping businesses from operating here. He says that in working for Marden's he has seen first-hand how the state's high taxes and burdensome legislation keep businesses from growing and creating new opportunities.

"In the Senate, I will work with members from both parties to find solutions that will bring new jobs to Maine," he said.

He says he also will work to lower income taxes without shifting the burden elsewhere.

"To bring our taxes in line with the rest of the nation, elected officials need to prioritize how government spends, and give money back to our overtaxed Mainers," he said.

Marrache says lowering taxes would help increase people's earned income, help stabilize the family budget and improve the business climate by enticing people to come to Maine, work and invest in companies here.

"Increasing the sales tax would only be considered if the outcry from the people for lost programs or services along with a groundswell of support from the people deemed it necessary," she said.