In 2003, Federal health care reform was well settled in a stalemate of inaction. Meanwhile, costs were spiraling out of control. Working people were losing their insurance. Businesses found themselves burdened in international competition.

Thanks to a bold Governor and Legislature, Maine's health care reform became law in September 2003. Named "Dirigo," after the state motto meaning "I Lead," the program was a first-of-a-kind effort in the nation. The country took notice. The New York Times editorialized, "it is encouraging that Maine, which led most states in efforts to control prescription drug costs, has now taken a new tack toward solving the nation's health care problems."