The House Democrats’ health plan
The Democrats in the House have unveiled their proposal for a health care overhaul. In my humble opinion, this plan would decrease Americans’ liberty and move our country one step farther in the direction of socialism. Among the provisions of the proposed bill are the following (with my commentary):
- A government-funded insurance plan. I’m opposed to government-funded anything right now, since that would mean either higher taxes or more debt.
- Affordability credits available only to people who make up to $43,000. I think it’s unfair to charge different prices for the same thing based on income.
- Expansion of Medicaid. Again, this would require more government spending and would be giving people free things based on their income, which is unfair.
- An individual mandate to have health insurance, with penalties of 2.5% of one’s income if one does not obey. This is the worst part of the bill right here. The government simply does not have the right to tell people what they must buy. Having health insurance and not having health insurance are two equally good options, and people have a right to decide which is best for them.
- A mandate that businesses with payrolls of up to $250,000 either provide health insurance to employees or contribute 8% of their payroll. Businesses should not be required to provide employees with health insurance. In fact, I’d much rather employers not provide health insurance and instead raise their employees’ pay by the amount they would be spending on health insurance so that the employees can decide for themselves what to spend their money on.
- Insurance companies cannot deny people coverage for pre-existing conditions. I actually like this. Insurance should be made more like any other product – it should cost the same for everyone, and anyone who pays the price should be able to get it.
The Dems are calling their proposal America’s Affordable Health Choices Act. To me, it doesn’t seem too affordable, nor does it seem to give people choices, since one of the most important choices – whether or not to get health insurance - would be taken away from us. More government spending and more regulations on how we can live our lives are the last thing America needs.