What is the debate with Obama-Care?

[Hallett 82]

I realise that Obama and healthcare is a hot political topic in USA now . .but can somebody tell us what is going on?

Some are protesting against it and say it is unlawful to give health cover to all . .others protest the opposite . .and cheer if it gets the OK.

Media coverage here in Australia is patchy . .

* please don't let this become a one party is better than the other, I just want to know the mechanical nuts-and-bolts of the issue as it seems confusing*

How will the choices affect each person for good or bad. ?

[GrumpysWife]

Here,s some reports. I really don't know much about it.

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-06-28/obama-s-health-care-overhaul-upheld-by-u-dot-s-dot-supreme-court

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/story/2012-06-28/health-care-ruling-supreme-court/55903594/1

[Musky]

From what I have read, it is not "free" health care for all, it is "affordable" health care for all, with the insurance companies deciding what is affordable or not. So they will set the price and this law makes it mandatory for everyone to purchase it. If you don't you will get "fined". Now Congress does not have the power to force a person to purchase anything with threat of a fine, so it went to the supreme court. Who basically rewrote the wording of the law and changed the fine into a "tax" which congress has a right to levy. But congress and the president have been saying all along that it is NOT a tax. They have won their case but look mighty foolish, but what else is new?

The polls show the majority of people are against this health care bill. But it is Obama's "Signature" legislation that he feel will define his presidency. He is probably correct. One writer wrote after the court decision "Welcome the the Confederation of the socialist state of America. "we the people" no longer has any meaning".

Fun times!

[Hallett 82]

Thank you Vernalee and Chuck.

It does sound confusing. Affordable health care is important but out of reach of many people now.

Australia has had a social medical system along side a private insurance cover (only wealthy can afford) for decades.

Now with an aging population and big business putting off employees at an alarming rate, there are no longer enough taxpayers to foot the health bill.

We expect it to collapse any time. I will read those links to get a local perspective.