Statement from CalPIRG Health Care Advocate, Mike Russo

“We welcome the Speaker’s announcement on Tuesday of his plan for health care reform. While the details haven’t fully been released, it looks to contain costs, expand coverage, and help consumers get a fair shake when buying insurance.

“The Speaker’s proposal is a real olive branch to the Governor, since incorporating an individual mandate and decreasing the employer fee go a long way towards meeting him in the middle.

“It also pays for reform by levying a tax on cigarettes. A tobacco tax would provide a solid source of funding for health care, while at the same time discouraging a very unhealthy habit. It’s win-win for everybody – except maybe for Big Tobacco.

“The Speaker’s just taken us a big step forward. The negotiations aren’t over, but one last push could get us to the health care reform California needs.”

CALPIRG is a statewide membership-based public interest group that stands up to powerful interests, working to win concrete results for Californians’ health and well-being. With researchers, advocates, organizers and students, we advocate on behalf of consumers and all California’s residents.

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