Fines for Uninsured
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is considering a proposal that will fine State residents who do not have health insurance coverage. The plan would identify uninsured, force enrollment into plans, and leverage fines until patients comply with payment of premiums.
Other potential tactics under discussion include garnishing wages of persons who refuse to participate or increasing their burden of state income tax. Potential “targets” would be identified by State and provider databases, pinpointing individuals who had a lapse of coverage over 60 days.
The proposal has been widely criticized, with interest groups arguing that many individuals cannot afford health insurance premiums and certainly not the proposed fines. For some, the Governor’s plan would offer subsidized rates to offset premium costs.
Massachusetts, too, is planning to penalize State residents who do not have coverage under a new proposal to insure all residents, but the fines are minimal.
Related stories:
- Massachusetts Plans for Universal Healthcare
- Minnesota Sets Rates for Uninsured
- Universal Coverage Hits House
April 12, 2007 Related topics: Legal & legislative