I will try to write more often with the hope that the local newspapers will give me the latitude to express myself on issues that citizens ask me about. Every day, someone or several people ask me about the health care bill. That is a federal bill and a congressional issue. I was not involved with that legislation nor do I have any impact. I do not vote on federal bills. The bill passed by the Democrats congressional majority without one Republican supporting it. Frankly, I would not have supported the bill. My objections are not based on politics, but on economics. I simply don't believe the U.S.A. can afford this legislation. The math simply doesn't add up. The numbers that congress came up with are from a dubious source at best. That being said, I am interested in the lawsuits being filed by at least 14 states against the federal government. The lawsuit claims the bill is unconstitutional because it violates the 10th amendment pertaining to state sovereignty. These 14 states are arguing that the government cannot require every citizen to purchase health insurance and that there is no ability to fine or tax citizens who refuse to purchase health insurance. I support Attorney General Greg Zoller's decision to file suit against the federal government. As stated earlier, I am gravely concerned that our nation cannot sustain the costs of this program. Even though there are some parts of this bill I could support such as eliminating the issue of preexisting conditions by insurance companies or allowing a couple more years for young people to remain on their parents' health policy (seems like a fair thing to do and it's reasonable). I don't object to everything in this bill, but the fiscal impact of health care for everyone should make us all pause and be concerned. If the federal government truly wants to be Santa Claus, it needs to realize that Santa's sack is empty, and has been for years. The national debt is already huge and this only adds to the amount we are borrowing from countries like China. China is becoming more uncomfortable with our spending and borrowing. I want the best health care for all our citizens and I think we have the best system on the planet. The consequences of this legislation seem to be too great for any logical person to support it. A better approach would be to tweak our system and improve it-not one big sudden revolutionary change. I encourage each of you to stay informed and continue to be involved. This whole health care issue is not over. New discoveries are being made every day within the 2,500 page bill. Please remember, this government is a democracy. It belongs to its citizens not the other way around. The assertion by the Democrat majority in Washington D.C. claiming that health care is a right requires more discussion. Stay informed and become involved.
More Later,
Bill Friend
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