AUGUSTA — Those opposed to social service cuts put forward by Gov. John Baldacci said today they would rather see the state close the budget gap by increasing taxes on tobacco products, alcohol, soda or snacks, among other measures.

Consumers and advocates came to the Statehouse to announce their opposition to Baldacci’s $38 million curtailment order which cuts funding to programs that help the elderly, adults with mental illness, the disabled and childless adults who don’t have health care.

The coalition of 25 organizations, including AARP Maine, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland and the Disability Rights Center, said they are proposing a three-pronged approach to closing the gap.

They would like the Legislature to consider the targeted tax increases, coordinating health care costs, and dipping into the state’s rainy day fund to close the gap.