Goodman: Missourians to Vote on Health Care Freedom Act

On the Aug. 3 primary ballot, Missouri voters will have the opportunity to vote on the Missouri Health Care Freedom Act [HB1764]. During the regular legislative session, I, along with a solid majority of my colleagues, worked to get a bill passed that would put this issue before the voters so you could make your own decision regarding the issue, which is in response to the federal health care law passed earlier this year.

Proposition C will appear to Missouri voters on the ballot in the following language:

Shall the Missouri Statutes be amended to:

• Deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services?
• Modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies?

It is estimated this proposal will have no immediate costs or savings to state or local governmental entities. However, because of the uncertain interaction of the proposal with implementation of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, future costs to state governmental entities are unknown.

Fair Ballot Language: A “yes” vote will amend Missouri law to deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services. The amendment will also modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

A “no” vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding private health insurance, lawful healthcare services, and the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

Put simply, Missouri voters will choose whether or not the state should prohibit any law from forcing a patient, employer or health care provider to participate in any government or privately run health care system. Missouri will be the first state to hold a vote on this issue, leading the way for the 42 other states that are working to enact similar legislation. The outcome of the vote will surely be closely watched and analyzed around the country, as Missourians will give more insight into public opinion on the federal government’s new health care plan.

Throughout the legislative process, I worked to get this very important issue before the voters, because I firmly believe that Missourians need an opportunity for their voices to be heard. Health care is a deeply personal matter, and by putting it to a vote, we can ensure that Missouri residents have a say in what they believe are the appropriate health insurance options for themselves and their families. I encourage you to educate yourself on the issue and head to the voting booth on Aug. 3.

As always, I welcome your ideas, questions and concerns about Missouri government. You may contact me at the State Capitol as follows: (573) 751-2234, jack{dot}goodman{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or by writing to Senator Jack Goodman, Missouri State Capitol, Room 331-A, Jefferson City, MO 65101.