For the last year, thousands of Mainers have been fighting Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield's attempts to jack up their premiums as much as 35% on individuals. We have worked together to get the state to make Anthem keep the rate hikes down, but now Anthem is suing the state for a guaranteed 3% profit. Dozens of organizations, faith leaders, and hundreds of activists are calling for a two-day mobilization in Portland right before the court hearing to show Anthem that Maine will NEVER back down in the fight for quality, affordable health care for all.
MARCH 18, 5 pm - RALLY & PROTEST!
The night before the hearing, join hundreds of Mainers outside the Cumberland County Courthouse to protest Anthem's greed.
MARCH 19, 8 am - PACK THE COURTHOUSE!
Help us fill the courtroom and park outside to support Maine
in its fight against the greed that hurts our families.
Here's the skinny: Last year, Anthem asked for an 18% rate hike for certain policyholders. After holding hearings, Maine's Superintendent of Insurance denied that request but did grant Anthem a 10.9% rate increase. That wasn't enough for Anthem! They decided to file a lawsuit against the State of Maine to ensure a guaranteed profit at a time when many Mainers are struggling to just make ends meet. That case hasn't even been heard yet, and Anthem has already requested an additional 23% rate increase on the same policyholders on top of what they are suing for. Wellpoint, Anthem's parent company, made $2.7 billion dollars just in the 4th quarter of 2009, yet they are now asking Mainer's to pay even more.
We have a unique opportunity. The March 18 rally will have a strong impact by reminding the public that, without reform, they are left to the whim of Anthem's greed. Without passing health care reform, our elected officials will also be letting us down.
Now is the time to make a stand, and every person can make a difference. It will be exciting, historic and memorable - but it takes all of us standing together.
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
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