Jul 17 2009
On Health and Death
I’m glad Politics 2000 has passed the 300-post mark. However, any happiness about that milestone must be tempered by the tragic recent events in Indonesia.
Condolences to those involved in the Jakarta hotel bombings Thursday. Those people were minding their own business. They were living their lives without bothering others. For them to be killed, injured or terrorized in such a brazen, callous way is heartbreaking.
It’s surprising that no group claimed responsbility. Even if they didn’t do it, terrorists know the easiest way to generate worldwide attention is to claim “credit” for a heinous attack on civilians.
A health care reform bill passed three Congressional committees Friday. The House Ways and Means and Education and Labor committees, plus the Senate Health Committee approved the 1,000-page legislation.
President Obama spoke briefly today about the pressing need for sweeping changes to the American health care system. He wants final Congressional approval before next month’s recess although the Senate isn’t likely to agree to that timetable.
Proponents believe the proposal will reduce spiraling costs and guarantee coverage for more Americans. They maintain for-profit companies are the biggest problem within the current system. Opponents think a government-subsidized health care plan will drive private insurance companies out of business, thereby forcing everyone to use the government’s plan.
