Sara Stalman, M.D. (BDN letter, July 28) has joined Michael Belliveau [of the Environmental Health Strategy Center] in ignoring common courtesy, decency and integrity. They have not only made unfounded allegations but have spread outright lies. Ms. Stalman has wrongly accused me of letting greed hijack good fiscal sense. It is my turn to speak to this issue.

On June 17, the governor signed LD 1034 into law which would add a new tax to every gallon of paint sold in Maine. It was this tax that I opposed and still oppose. I voted against LD 1034 based on two convictions.

One conviction is that Maine taxes are excessive and burdensome to individuals as well as businesses. The other is that Maine needs to look at solutions other than tax increases to solve problems such as those caused by lead paint. I do believe the horrible effect of lead-based paint is a problem.

My conversations began with Gov. Baldacci when he called me on June 20 or 21. I asked if he was going to sign LD 1034 and he told me that if we put $1 million in the bond package that he would have the bill recalled from his desk.

I was not aware that the governor had already signed the bill. But based on his offer to avoid the tax if $1 million was included in the bond proposal, I recommended to my colleagues that we do so.

In meetings with my Republican caucus and during later negotiations, I continued to report what the governor said to me. There was never a “demand” made by me to repeal the tax.

I find it ironic that while I am being accused of making demands, the governor’s office has been talking with the industry. Ms. Stalman should do her homework.

Sen. Paul T. Davis

R-Sangerville