Healthcare reform...here to stay?

The California State Assembly voted this afternoon to pass the newest iteration of the Democratic leadership's healthcare plan. The vote split down party lines, but has the support of Governor Schwarzenegger. The bill, AB x1 1, now awaits action in the Senate, most likely coming after the holidays. Senate President Pro Tem Perata has said he's hesitant to move the bill forward with the impending budget crisis. The Democratic leadership within the legislature has made several failed attempts this year to come to consensus with the Governor; affordability and financing have been two key issues upon which the two bodies have disagreed.

Any reform must be affordable and comprehensive. Guaranteed healthcare is an absolute must, but not if it comes at the expense of women and children! Under the current proposal, every citizen in California would be required to purchase coverage if they're not already insured under a government program. The financing for the plan would come from a number of sources, including a significant tobacco tax, as well as employer contributions and a new hospital tax. Stay tuned for further developments and check out the Health Access California blog for frequent updates.