Healthcare Reform Still A Top Priority of State Leaders and Ontario Chamber

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce reviewed the Governor’s new healthcare proposal and will continue to review the proposal as it unfolds in the legislature. The State Assembly has voted and approved the proposal with Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez co-authoring the piece of legislation. If the proposal passes the State Senate, funding part of the proposal will go to the voters for their approval during the November 2008 election.

Click here for arguments in support

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“Healthcare reform is one of our top priorities,” stated Bob Cruz, Chair of the Ontario Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee. “Although we are concerned about the financial impacts to our businesses, especially small businesses, we know that paying for reform must not solely rest on the backs of businesses,” continued Cruz.

The Governor’s healthcare proposal, in the legislative form of AB X1 1: Health Care Security and Cost Reduction Act, has to await approval from the State Senate. If approved, the proposal would provide medical coverage to about 70 percent of Californians who are permanently uninsured. The caveat to the legislation is that the Governor is asking voters to go to the polls in November to approve the funding mechanism which includes hospital fees, an increased tobacco tax and an employer fee among others.

Some highlights of the Governor’s healthcare proposal, AB X1 1 which Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez has helped co-authored:

AB X1 1 would create a vast and expensive new health care program funded partially by a costly payroll tax on California employers and increased tobacco taxes.

AB X1 1 would also require voters to go to the polls in November to approve the funding portion of the proposed healthcare plan.

Requires that all Californians take responsibility for their health coverage (individual mandate).

Guarantees that no Californian will be turned away from buying insurance based on their age or medical history.

Spreads responsibility across individuals, government, hospitals and employers (shared responsibility).

Makes coverage more affordable for individuals and families through tax credits and subsidies.

Helps keep hospitals and emergency rooms open by increasing Medi-Cal reimbursement rates.

Allows individuals to choose their health coverage and keep their current insurance.