RED ALERT: Defensive Dems Face Barrage of Criticism Over Healthcare Vote

March 30, 2010

If Democrats Think They’re Winning the Local Spin War, What Does Losing Look Like?

EDITORIALS CRITICIZE OBAMA-PELOSI CARE

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL: “Since the passage of ObamaCare, several major U.S. companies — so far, they include AT&T, Verizon, Caterpillar, Deere, Valero Energy, AK Steel and 3M — have announced that they expect the law to cost them billions of dollars in higher health care expenses. This has prompted an angry Rep. Henry Waxman, chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and one of many Democrats who swore up and down that the measure would actually cut costs, to summon some of the executives to Capitol Hill to defend their assessment…Perhaps these Democrats really are surprised – perhaps (as Republicans consistently warned) they never actually read and comprehended what was in their nearly 3,000-page social engineering experiment…One Democratic staffer affiliated with the Waxman committee told the magazine that neither Rep. Waxman nor Rep. Bart Stupak, chairman of the Oversight and Investigations panel, had anything more than a cursory understanding of how the many sections of the bill would impact business or even individuals before they voted on the legislation. ‘We had memos on these issues, but none of our people, we think, looked at them,’ says the staffer…‘They just didn’t understand what they were voting on.’ And it’s only just begun.” (Editorial, “Didn’t understand what was in it,” Las Vegas Review-Journal, 03/30/10)

SENATOBIA DEMOCRAT: “At the last minute, U.S. Rep. Travis Childers made a big splash (page one of The Clarion Ledger) about voting against the Pelosi – Reid – Obama health care taxation disaster. We believe he had to wait so long to declare his vote because Speaker Pelosi was still counting votes and could not afford to let her endangered Blue Dog off his leash until the last minute. We applaud Childers for voting against the law — no matter what his reason. The problem remains, however, that as long as the Democrats control the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi will run it. Getting rid of Childers (and the Democrat majority) won’t guarantee the return of sanity to the House, but it would be a good start.” (Editorial, “Childers Must Go,” Senatobia Democrat, 03/30/10)

NEW HAMPSHIRE UNION LEADER: “Democrats are claiming that the American people should sit back and swallow the health care bill that became law last week because, hey, it’s what the President campaigned on, so just shut up already. But it’s not at all what Obama campaigned on. Remember the big health care fight between Obama and Hillary Clinton in 2007 and 2008? … Obama never campaigned on an individual mandate; he campaigned against one. Then he became President and within six months was pushing an individual mandate. Obama also campaigned against taxing employer-provided health care plans, which this law does. He said his plan would cost about $50 billion a year; it costs more than twice that. To say we have to accept this law because the President campaigned on it is a lie. This is not what he campaigned on. The American people were sold on one plan and given another, and they are right to take it back and ask for an exchange.” (Editorial, “Promised Reform? Obama Didn’t Sell Us This,” New Hampshire Union Leader, 03/29/10)

SEATTLE TIMES: “The law calls its mandate a tax. But if you comply, your money goes to the insurance company. You pay the government only if you don’t comply — which means, McKenna says, ‘It’s not a tax. It’s a fine.’ We think McKenna has a good case, and one the progressives who condemn him ought to appreciate. These critics are so often right about the dangers of corporate power, and particularly the rapacity of insurance companies. But if it’s federal power, and it’s for a social purpose, and Barack Obama is presiding over it, they set their judgment aside. They accept a 2,000-page bill on its label only. They accept its promise, almost surely vacant, of cost savings. They overlook the deals cut with the insurance and pharmaceutical interests. They shrug off the ‘cornhusker kickback.’ And to those who invoke the Constitution, they become shrill. This page supported Obama, and we still like him. But we also support checks and balances on federal power, and review of this law by the Supreme Court.” (Editorial, “AG Rob McKenna has a case to challenge the health-care law’s individual mandate,” Seattle Times, 3/26/10)

THE MUNCIE STAR PRESS: “Just to be clear, we’re not discussing the pros or cons of the health bill; it’s the Christmas tree ornaments that Congress hung off it to assure its passage. The main one (at least that we know of so far; it takes time to wade through 2,409 pages of legislation) will expand the government’s Pell Grant programs at the expense of private student loan originators such as Sallie Mae. The result: Under a worst-case scenario, Muncie might lose 700 jobs at its Sallie Mae call center on the city’s north side. A Star Press article on Tuesday said the company might have to cut its 8,600 total workforce by 2,500 workers and reduce its national locations from 25 to about six. It’s unknown how Muncie might fare if the company starts closing offices.” (Editorial, “Health-Reform Package Contains Nasty Surprise,” The Muncie Star Press, 3/25/10)

COLUMBUS DISPATCH: “The president and Congress have laid the legal groundwork for a massive intervention into the health and pocketbooks of all Americans. Now the question is, do the president and Congress — and all future Congresses — have any intention of sticking to the funny arithmetic used to sell the plan as affordable? Skepticism is in order. In a memo issued after the U.S. House passed the legislation on Sunday, the nonpartisan Concord Coalition (www.concordcoalition.org), which advocates elimination of federal deficits and the sound funding of federal entitlements, said that expanding health-care coverage to 32 million Americans ‘without curbing costs is a recipe for fiscal disaster.’ Likewise, the coalition notes, Congress would have to follow through on a promised $500 billion reduction in Medicare costs, including cuts in reimbursements to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and other providers. This is supposed to happen when an additional 32 million Americans, newly equipped with government-subsidized health insurance, are lining up for care at such facilities? … House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was apparently unaware of the irony when, in calling for House Democrats to pass the health-care overhaul on Sunday, she said, ‘We will be joining those who established Social Security, Medicare.’ You will be, indeed, Madame Speaker. The Republican members of Ohio’s delegation understood the recklessness of this new entitlement and voted no. The Democratic members of Ohio’s delegation voted yes, with the courageous exception of Rep. Zack Space of Dover, who objects to tax provisions of the bill and who noted that a majority of his constituents opposed the measure. Unfortunately, Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy of Columbus chose to vote for the interests of Pelosi and not the interests of the majority of her constituents.” (Editorial, “Congress, President Now Must Show that Their Funny Math Works,” Columbus Dispatch, 03/24/10)

NEW HAMPSHIRE UNION LEADER: “…(Reps. Paul Hodes and Carol Shea-Porter and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen also ignored those concerns and blindly followed their party bosses.) Cost estimates range from $11 million to more than $30 million a year for the Medicaid provisions alone. The bill’s total burden on the state budget could be around $100 million a year. But no one knows because the bill is huge and complicated and the governor didn’t get around to going through it until after it passed. Blind partisanship has its costs. For New Hampshire taxpayers, the costs are going to be dear indeed.” (Editorial, “Obamacare’s NH Cost: Lynch Takes a Look,” New Hampshire Union Leader, 03/24/10)

ARIZONA REPUBLIC: “Politically speaking, the health-care reform legislation passed by Democrats on Sunday constitutes an act of political willpower on the part of President Barack Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that itself appears historic. Even many ardent supporters did not think it was possible. Opponents will be loath to concede as much, but many of those voting “aye” did so knowing their careers are in serious jeopardy as a result. Like the result or not, their votes took courage. Another is that ‘Obamacare’ is the price Republicans now have paid for refusing to confront health-care reform seriously over the years. They had a real chance to effect market-based reform after the party’s 1994 takeover of Congress. GOP leaders preferred impeaching Bill Clinton and merely snickering at the proposals of Rep. John Shadegg, R-Ariz. Now, they have paid the price for their follies.” (Editorial, “We are entering the unknown,” Arizona Republic, 03/23/10)

FARGO FORUM: “North Dakotans should be disappointed in Rep. Earl Pomeroy, D, and Sens. Byron Dorgan, D, and Kent Conrad, D. On the other hand, Minnesotans in that state’s 7th Congressional District have reason to praise Rep. Collin Peterson, D. Pomeroy went against the sentiments of a majority of North Dakotans late Sunday by voting for a deeply flawed overhaul of the nation’s health care system. In response, Dorgan and Conrad said they would support final amendments to the overall bill when they came to the Senate this week. They said they believed the legislation will cut the cost of health care and strengthen the system for all Americans. … North Dakota’s trio of Democrats has a responsibility to pay attention to the wishes of the folks back home. They ignored those wishes and hopped onto a bandwagon driven by the president and Democratic congressional leadership.” (Editorial, “Pomeroy’s health vote insults North Dakota,” Fargo Forum, 03/23/10)

THE WHEELING INTELLIGENCER: “U.S. Rep. Alan Mollohan, D-W.Va., has been a member of Congress for 27 years – long enough to know that the law is the law, regardless of what a president may say in an executive order. Mollohan was among about half a dozen lawmakers who caved in to pressure from President Barack Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday, casting votes in favor of the White House health care bill. The group, led by U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., had insisted for weeks that they could not, in good conscience, vote for the measure. It opened up the possibility of federal funding for abortions, Stupak explained. But on Sunday, Stupak announced his group would support the bill. That was as a result of assurances by Obama that he would issue an executive order requiring that no federal money be used for abortions. Presidents issue such orders frequently, in order to steer policy by federal agencies. But executive orders cannot amend the law – not even by a miniscule amount. Obama and Stupak’s coalition, including Mollohan, know that. In other words, Obama’s executive order was intended to provide nothing more than political cover for Mollohan, Stupak and others in the coalition. The bill they claimed to oppose will become law – and their votes ensured that. The bill was approved by a vote of 219-212 in the House. Had Mollohan and others in the Stupak coalition not caved in to Obama and Pelosi, the measure would have been defeated. Enormous political pressure was exerted on behalf of the bill by Obama, Pelosi and other liberals in Washington. The relative ease with which they won the Stupak coalition votes may have surprised them. Clearly, Mollohan and others in the coalition wanted badly to vote for the bill – and were willing, in effect, to trade their principles for a meaningless piece of paper. Obama’s health care bill is bad for the nation. It will force tens of millions of Americans, including many in Mollohan’s 1st District of West Virginia, to pay more for health care. It will limit the health care choices of many. In voting for the measure, Mollohan has demonstrated once again that representing his constituents is a secondary concern. Placating Obama and Pelosi comes first.” (Editorial, “Mollohan Fails W.Va. Again,” The Wheeling Intelligencer, 03/23/10)

DENVER POST: “Not only will the deeply flawed bill hurt the nation in years to come, it also could cost Democrats in November’s election. In their single-minded quest to notch a political victory, Democrats in Congress late Sunday night enacted deeply flawed health care legislation that was propped up on misleading estimates and backroom deals — the repercussions of which will hurt this nation for years to come. In Colorado, it’s possible the bill’s passage could cost a few key Democrats dearly come election time, and it could hurt the party overall. But this is a bad bill. Not only are we disgusted by the slick politics and shady deals that helped seal the deal, the policies rooted in it are more than problematic and it will do little to bring down costs. The numbers just don’t add up. This is not a credible way to make policy, and it is no way to treat the American people.” (Editorial, “Political failure on health care,” Denver Post, 03/22/10)

PANAMA CITY NEWS HERALD: “In rationalizing his vote for the Democrats’ health care legislation, Rep. Allen Boyd on Friday reached for a fig leaf to cover his political posterior. As a member of the coalition of self-proclaimed fiscally conservative ‘Blue Dog’ Democrats, it’s not surprising that Boyd cited the latest analysis of the bill from the Congressional Budget Office. The CBO reported Thursday that the legislation would cost $940 billion over 10 years and reduce federal deficits by $138 billion over the same time. Boyd particularly touted the claims that it would reduce the deficit by $1.2 trillion over 20 years and that the legislation ‘largely pays for itself.’” (Editorial, “Boyd’s fiscal fantasy,” Panama City News Herald, 03/21/10)

INVESTOR’S BUSINESS DAILY: “The water spigots are back on, at least temporarily, in California’s Central Valley. Turned off to protect a tiny fish, they happen to be in the districts of two congressmen “undecided” on health care reform. One could chalk it up to good fortune or just good constituent service. But in the middle of a contentious health care debate marked by Cornhusker Kickbacks and Louisiana Purchases, we may be forgiven if we find an announcement by the Department of the Interior regarding California’s water supply a tad too coincidental. This isn’t the first time. To get them out of the “undecided” column in last December’s House vote, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic leadership promised $500 million for a new University of California-Merced Medical School. Costa and Cardoza then voted ‘aye.’” (Editorial, “Buying Votes with Water,” Investor’s Business Daily, 03/19/10)

BISMARCK TRIBUNE: “The health care reform legislation now in the U.S. House of Representatives, which may be voted on shortly, will not do the job of controlling rising costs, will spawn a significant increase in the federal role in health care — and should be rejected. The bill under consideration was first passed by Democrats in the U.S. Senate. At this writing, Democrats planned to have the House pass the Senate bill, and then add “fixes” to it. Unfortunately, even with the fixes, the legislation does not measure up to necessary reform, and it may increase costs and reduce services for many Americans. North Dakota Rep. Earl Pomeroy should vote no on this bill. A series of Tribune editorials in August set out what health care reform should entail. Key points include cost control, bringing more of the 30 percent of Americans now uninsured into the system, being upfront about where the money will come from to pay the costs and avoiding socialized medicine. The reform package under consideration does not sufficiently move to control the rising costs of health care.” (Editorial, “Health care reform doesn’t do the job,” Bismarck Tribune, 03/19/10)

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL: “There is nothing redeeming about the crushing new health insurance regulations proposed by President Obama and Democratic Party leaders. Nothing. Instead of reducing costs, it will increase Americans’ premiums and taxes. It will pile trillions more dollars onto the national debt. It will impose suffocating new burdens on small businesses and create another insolvent federal entitlement. Rep. Titus supported the House version that barely passed in November. Her spokesman, Andrew Stoddard, said Monday she “has not yet decided how she will vote” on the current bill. Rep. Titus claims to be a friend to small business owners and a practitioner of fiscal responsibility. But she’ll be exposed as just another budget-busting, tax-and-spend Democrat if she tows the Pelosi-Reid-Obama line on this issue — and will deserve what she gets come November.” (Editorial, “Heat on Titus,” Las Vegas Review-Journal, 03/16/10)

ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER: “It now seems likely that the politicking and vote-buying will continue this week until House Speaker Nancy Pelosi determines whether she has the votes to push through the House the version of health insurance reform that passed the Senate. That means this week could be one of the more pivotal weeks in our nation’s recent history. In the midst of all the minutiae, however, it is important to remember that if the Senate bill passes, with or without modifications done through reconciliation, it will change the character of America in ways that are unlikely to be reversed. We will have taken a large and perhaps decisive step toward becoming just like the European welfare states, with much larger government involvement in every aspect of our lives in exchange for a promise of security, exchanging the risk, uncertainty and excitement of personal independence and liberty for the soft embrace of dependence. Once the government can force you to buy a health insurance policy, its control not only over our health – already a life-and-death matter – but over other aspects of our lives can only escalate.If that is an attractive prospect to you – if you consider it prudent to give up an independence you may see as illusory anyway for the promise of security – feel free to root for Nancy Pelosi to get the votes she needs. Pardon us if we hope she doesn’t.” (Editorial, “U.S. At Crossroads With Obamacare,” Orange County Register, 03/12/10)

JACKSON CITIZEN PATRIOT: “After a year of angry debate, even after polls say most Americans have turned against it, President Obama wants Congress to jam through health care reform. It’s possible, too, as long as Congress goes along. Or should we say, ‘as long as Democrats in Congress go along’? Every indication is that the president and his ruling party will try to push through this massive reform without a single Republican vote. Yet no bill will become law without enough Democratic votes. And faced with a bad bill, we have one Democrat in mind who should seize this opportunity to show he puts constituents above political party: U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer. Schauer, who represents this area, voted for the first health reform bill in November, helping provide its five-vote margin. With some fellow Democrats balking over abortion or the bill’s scope, Schauer will be a critical swing vote. It’s no exaggeration this would be the most important vote of his first two years in Congress. We urge Schauer to say no. Health care reform, as presently constructed, is unwieldy and mammoth. It relies on overly rosy projections. And there’s a good chance it will merely keep inflating the cost of health care. This newspaper supported Schauer for election in 2008, convinced that his first interest would be his constituents. If that is true, he will listen to them. People do not want this health reform.” (“Editorial: Health care reform is U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer’s moment to define himself,” Jackson Citizen Patriot, 03/09/10)

OAKLAND PRESS: “We’ve remained relatively silent on the verbose and convoluted health care bill in Congress. That’s because we really don’t know that much about it. There are 2,000-plus pages that many attorneys could hardly stumble through. Included in its pages may be some really beneficial regulations. But if they are, they are buried. In the meantime, the backroom deals, such as the special arrangements made for Nebraska and Louisiana, are an outrageous embarrassment. For the record, we need health care reform. The skyrocketing premiums, co-pays and deductibles are straining most if not all middle-class family budgets. But it’s become apparent that this bill is not the right way to go. That’s why we’re urging Democratic Congressmen Gary Peters, D-Bloomfield Township, and Sander Levin, D-Royal Oak, to change their votes and reject this current monstrosity masquerading as health care reform. We urge them to spearhead a new, bipartisan effort in Congress coupled with a new and redirected approach from President Obama.” (Editorial, “Peters, Levin should change health votes,” Oakland Press, 03/09/10)

LOCAL HEADLINES NO MORE ENCOURAGING FOR HOUSE DEMOCRATS

“Tsongas Greeted By Protest At Chelmsford Breakfast” (CHELMSFORD INDEPENDENT): “What set out to be a talk honoring Women’s History Month at the Chelmsford Senior Center evolved into a political dispute when Congresswoman Niki Tsongas spoke to seniors about the effects of the new healthcare bill. The majority of speakers at the brunch sponsored by the Chelmsford Senior Center and senior living center Chelmsford Crossings heckled Tsongas, the first woman elected to Congress to serve the Bay State in more than 25 years, for supporting the healthcare reform bill signed into law last week by President Barrack Obama. Tsongas, a Lowell Democrat, defended the bill and explained its anticipated effects on seniors, women and children….Opponents of the bill, such as Chelmsford resident Tom Gilroy, accused Tsongas of ignoring her constituents. ‘As you know you and your colleagues are going on a victory lap, but many of us in the 5th District are against the [healthcare bill],’ said Gilroy. ‘Can you explain to us how you can represent us and vote against us?’” (Chloe Gotsis, “Tsongas greeted by protest at Chelmsford breakfast,” Chelmsford Independent, 03/29/10)

“Tucson-Based Doctors Group Sues To Overturn Health Care Bill” (KOLD): “A national doctors’ group based in Tucson is joining several states in suing the federal government to overturn the newly-passed health care reform act. The Association of American Physicians and Surgeons calls it a massive intrusion into the practice of medicine and the rights of patients because it forces people to buy health insurance. The plan backed by President Barack Obama and majority Democrats would fine people for not having health insurance, starting in 2014. The Association — along with several attorneys general — claims the reform law tramples on state and individual rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution.” (Christopher Francis, “Tucson-based doctors group sues to overturn health care bill,” KOLD, 03/29/10

“Earful for Himes” (CONNECTICUT POST): “Congressman Himes getting an earful from constituents regarding the passing of health care reform.” (“Earful for Himes,” Connecticut Post, 3/27/10)

“You Could Cut The Tension Over Health Reform Outside The Darien Library With A Scalpel” (CONNECTICUT POST): “I got to experience a little slice of the national health reform debate outside of the Darien Public Library this afternoon. U.S. Congressman Jim Himes, a Democrat from Greenwich who voted in favor of the controversial legislation, had just wrapped up a forum on flooding issues in the region which I covered. Two or three members of the audience managed to work the health bill into the conversation, arguing it is just one more federal expense that will prevent the government from funding local projects like flood control. ‘I’m so upset about it I could just shake … You need to reconsider what you’re spending all that money on. We are not happy about it,’ said Bonnie Dudley of Rowayton, whose comments drew some applause and some groans. On his way to the parking lot Himes, who was running late for another event, stopped for a few minutes to engage a handful of residents upset with him over his vote. I knew the conversation was off to a bad start when Himes asked for their questions and one woman said: ‘We’ve got lots of questions. You just don’t have the answers, sir.’” (Brian Lockhart, “You Could Cut the Tension Over health Reform Outside the Darien Library with a Scalpel,” Connecticut Post, 3/27/10)

“On The Defensive” (MERCED SUN-STAR): “Congressman Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced, who voted for the health care reform bill, is already on the defensive. With good reason. In the coming election he has an opponent — unlike in his last election — and his yes vote for health care reform may be used against him. Fear not, Cardoza supporters — the man’s wife, or at least her voice, is already campaigning on phone lines in defense of her hubby. A radio spot by Dr. Kathleen McLoughlin, which was put on local stations, is also being used in robocalls, said Mike Lynch, a consultant on Cardoza’s campaign. That may be the case, but from down in the Valley where Lips is sitting, it looks — and sounds — a lot like the beginning of Cardoza’s re-election campaign.” (“On The Defensive,” Merced Sun-Star, 03/26/10)

“Matheson Faces Dem Backlash Over Reform” (SALT LAKE TRIBUNE): “The congressman was booed and heckled at caucus meetings. Fed up Utah Democrats booed and heckled Rep. Jim Matheson’s top lieutenants at a number of party caucus meetings in Utah on Tuesday — and even some of his supporters say they’ve had enough. ‘The health reform vote is just more than we can stomach,’ said Ron Spinelli, a Democratic delegate from Ivins who backed Matheson in the past, but won’t this year. ‘What a disappointment he has been.’ A sizeable group of Utah Democrats have long been frustrated by Matheson’s conservative streak, but his health reform opposition has pushed that tension to new heights. And the timing of the final vote could not have been more politically inconvenient for Matheson, who is running for a sixth term.” (Matt Canham, “Matheson faces Dem backlash over reform,” The Salt Lake Tribune, 03/25/10)

“Anti-Abortion Group Will Not Back Rahall, Mollohan” (CHARLESTON DAILY MAIL): “For the first time in years, veteran Democratic Reps. Alan Mollohan and Nick Rahall will not have the endorsement of West Virginians for Life in their reelection campaigns. Mollohan and Rahall also have serious opposition for the first time in years. They voted for President Obama’s health care reform package, which abortion foes say weakens a ban on using federal dollars to pay for abortions for Medicaid recipients. ‘It’s really sad, because I’ve known these guys for about 25 years and I just never thought they’d cave,’ said Karen Cross, president of West Virginians for Life. ‘They voted for a bill that would be essentially the greatest expansion of abortion since Roe v. Wade and the executive order does nothing to (change) that,’ she added. ‘It was just a way for the president to peel off pro-life votes.’ Her reference was to Obama’s executive order reaffirming the government’s restriction on use of federal funds for abortions. The president issued the order to sway anti-abortion lawmakers, who would have preferred that the restriction be spelled in the language of the health reform legislation. Currently, the abortion ban is set forth in the Hyde Amendment, which is named for the late Illinois congressman Henry Hyde. It was first passed in 1976 and prevents Medicaid coverage of elective abortions. Rahall said late last week that if the House didn’t find a way to strengthen the abortion language of the health care reform package, he would absolutely vote against it. On Sunday, he voted for the bill even though the language did not change. Immediately after the vote, West Virginians for Life announced that it would not support Rahall or Mollohan.” (Ry Rivard, “Anti-abortion group will not back Rahall, Mollohan,” Charleston Daily Mail, 03/25/10)

“Kosmas Gets An Earful During A Tele Town Hall On Health Care” (WDBO): “Congresswoman Suzanne Kosmas took some heat from callers for her health care reform vote during a telephone town hall on the issue Wednesday night. More than 4,000 people called into the event, and many of them let her know they didn’t like her yes vote…‘What did you do about tort reform?’ asked one man. ‘I don’t see anything in the bill.’ But a few callers like this man from Port Orange didn’t hide their disgust. ‘How can a Congressperson that has been elected by the people just ignore the will of the people and allow their party to buy and bribe and extort votes to pass a bill that nearly 70 percent of the American public did not want?’ he asked.” (Marva Hinton, “Kosmas gets an earful during a tele town hall on health care,” WDBO, 03/25/10)

“Wisconsin Small Business Group Pans Health Reform” (WISCONSIN PUBLIC RADIO): “A Wisconsin Congressman who voted in favor of health care reform says it will help small businesses. 8th District Representative Steve Kagen calls health legislation passed this week ‘historic, good for patients and great for small businesses.’ The Democrat says that’s partly due to tax credits small business owners will get for offering coverage to their workers. Kagen says the tax credit will be a 35-percent coverage of premiums, which means if a small business is spending $10,000, a $3,500 federal tax credit will be available to help small business for the next two years. But a group representing 12,000 of Wisconsin’s smaller employers says the legislation is actually a tax bill in disguise. Bill Smith, director of Wisconsin’s chapter of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), says taxes and penalties in the bill offset any reforms aimed at his members. Smith also says provisions that allow states to create ‘exchanges’ or ‘purchasing pools’ don’t go far enough.” (Patty Murray, “Wisconsin small business group pans health reform,” Wisconsin Public Radio, 03/25/10)

“Deal If You Must, Valley Reps, But Deal With Us Honestly” (FRESNO BEE): “Fast forward to the final hours before the House’s approval of the historic health-care reform bill. Costa and Rep. Dennis Cardoza of Merced stood accused of trading their votes for bigger water deliveries to farmers. Costa and Cardoza denied their support of health-care reform was linked to water allocation. The reality is, there probably was some kind of understanding between the administration and the holdout congressmen — but it may have well been unspoken. Mark Keppler, executive director of the nonpartisan Maddy Institute at Fresno State, said horse-trading is part of politics. Obama, of course, promised a new transparency during his presidential campaign. This created an expectation that the ugly days of sausage-making would end. Given human nature, that’s too much to ask. But I was hoping for something better than a process straight out of former Republican Majority Leader Tom DeLay’s playbook.” (Bill McEwen, “Deal if you must, Valley reps, but deal with us honestly,” Fresno Bee, 03/24/10)

“Quick, ‘Tie His Hands,’” (SOUTH BOSTON GAZETTE-VIRGINIAN): “Last week, 5th District Congressman Tom Perriello made a bold statement about Congress that ended with ‘If you don’t tie our hands, we’ll keep stealing.’ That’s exactly what he, along with 218 of his congressional cronies, did Sunday night when they voted in favor of the Senate health care plan. Despite the staggering numbers of phone calls, e-mails and letters his office received showing that a vote in favor of a government takeover of health care would be directly at odds with the interests and values of his constituents, he still chose to stand with President Obama and House Speaker Pelosi….In reality, what the congressman has done by supporting this toxic bill is to ignore his 5th District constituents and give his blessing to hundreds of billions of dollars in new taxes, Medicare cuts, runaway spending and unprecedented government control, not to mention negatively impacting small businesses struggling to stay afloat during this tough economic climate. By signing off on this shady back-room deal, he placed the interests and values of his fellow Democrats — namely Obama, Pelosi and Reid — ahead of the needs of the people in Southside he is supposed to represent. He has ignored an overwhelming majority in the 5th District and escalated a level of frustration within that constituency which we predict will result in great jeopardy and make for a short political career. Mr. Perriello, you simply have not listened to the majority here, and for that many of your constituents are promising your days in office are numbered. What part of “NO” did you not understand?” (Paula I. Bryant, “Quick, ‘Tie His Hands,’” South Boston Gazette-Virginian, 03/24/10)

“SC Congressman Spratt Defends Vote On Health Care” (LAKE WYLIE PILOT): “U.S. Rep. John Spratt joined Democrats in celebrating passage of health care reform Monday – but said he would’ve preferred a different approach to reach this point. ‘Frankly, I would’ve done it differently had it been my call,’ Spratt told The Herald in his first comments since Sunday night’s vote. ‘I would’ve done it in steps or stages. By taking on the whole bucketful of issues and problems, it only made it (more) complex.’ Incremental changes would’ve made it easier to win over skeptics, the York Democrat said. “At each stage, you would’ve brought the constituency affected by the changes along with you.’…. Among the opponents is Dr. Sushil Singhi, a doctor with Carolina Cardiology Associates in Rock Hill, who called the bill “catastrophic” for its intrusion into the health care system.” (Matt Garfield, “SC congressman Spratt defends vote on health care,” Lake Wylie Pilot, 03/23/10)

“Halvorson Trails In First Post-Healthcare Poll” (THE HILL): “If this is any indication of where the healthcare debate has left Democrats, they could be in trouble. Rep. Debbie Halvorson (D-Ill.) trails her reelection race by six points in the first public House poll conducted after the healthcare debate. The Public Opinion Strategies (R) poll for Iraq veteran Adam Kinzinger (R), which is set to be released widely, shows him leading Halvorson 44-38. The congresswoman is largely unknown, with a 33 percent favorability rating and 31 percent unfavorable. The poll was conducted Sunday and Monday — straddling the big healthcare vote — among 400 likely voters in Halvorson’s district. The pitched nature of the healthcare vote probably speaks to the fact that, while 52 percent disapproved of Obama in the poll, 38 percent of all voters strongly disapproved of him.” (Aaron Blake, “Halvorson trails in first post-healthcare poll,” The Hill, 03/23/10)

“Health Care War Sure To Bleed Into Elections” (MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE): “…Despite increasing partisan tensions, both sides consider the $940 billion health care bill largely a done deal for now. While Republicans like Arizona Sen. John McCain also have talked about a constitutional challenge to the requirement that nearly all Americans buy health insurance by 2014, a case like that could drag on for years. As Tea Party protesters made clear in their Capitol Hill rallies over the weekend, November comes first. The message war started within hours of Sunday night’s vote, with both sides targeting the opponents they deem most vulnerable in this year’s midterm elections. In Minnesota, Republicans immediately took aim at U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, a second-term Democrat from a southern district that had long been in GOP hands. National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Ken Spain said ‘Walz has put his political career in great jeopardy’ with his yes vote.” (Kevin Diaz and Rachel Stassen-Berger, “Health care war sure to bleed into elections,” Minneapolis Star Tribune, 03/23/10)

“A Vote That Opponents, Backers Will Remember” (ALBANY TIMES-UNION): “Opponents of the $940 billion health care overhaul who spent a year angrily protesting the legislation in town hall meetings and rallies are vowing to keep pressure on Rep. Scott Murphy, D-Glens Falls, in the run-up to the midterm elections in November. ‘This fight is a long way from over,’ said Tim Phillips, president of the group Americans for Prosperity, which last week held a ‘hands off my health care’ rally outside Murphy’s Clifton Park office. … The National Republican Congressional Committee is expected to air TV ads that paint Murphy as a flip-flopper on the issue. ‘This vote is an enormous political liability,’ said Tory Mazzola, a spokesman for the NRCC. ‘Not only was he a ‘yes’ vote, but he flip-flopped.’ ‘To upstate New Yorkers, this is a government takeover of health care that cuts Medicare benefits for seniors and raises taxes,’ Mazzola said, adding that Murphy’s decision to support the overhaul shows he is ‘out of touch with is district.’” (Jennifer A. Dlouhy and Leigh Hornbeck, “A Vote that Opponents, Backers Will Remember,” Albany Times-Union, 03/23/10)

“Carney, Kanjorski Risk Political Future In Health Care Vote” (CITIZENS VOICE): “By voting for health care reform Sunday, U.S. Reps. Chris Carney and Paul E. Kanjorski gambled that voters will understand the benefits in time to re-elect them later this year. Kanjorski, D-Nanticoke, a congressman since 1985, admitted he risked his political future and called it one of his most difficult votes ever. Carney, D-Dimock Township, in office since 2007, did not see his vote as politically risky and said voting yes was not difficult. Their opponents Monday predicted an end to their days in Congress.” (Borys Krawczeniuk, “Carney, Kanjorski Risk Political Future in Health Care Vote,” Citizens Voice, 03/23/10)

“Local Congressman Facing Repercussions From Health Care Vote” (KTVU): “All twelve Bay Area Democrats voted yes on health care reform. For most, there will almost certainly be no political consequence. Their congressional districts are solidly Democratic. But there is one congressman in the East Bay who could pay a price. Because of gerrymandering, almost all of the Republican congressional seats in California are safely Republican and most all of the Democratic seats are safe for Democrats. Most save one: the Eleventh congressional district which stretches from Pleasanton all the way out to Lodi is perhaps California’s only remaining swing district. The seat is currently held by Democrat Jerry McNerney. He voted yes on health care reform.” (“Local Congressman Facing Repercussions From Health Care Vote,” KTVU, 03/23/10)

“Heck Organizes Healthcare Reform Protest Outside Titus Office” (KTNV): “The healthcare reform vote is affecting everyone in the country while protestors in the valley held a rally at Dina Titus’ office. Titus voted yes. ‘Its the price of leadership to do the thing that has to be done at the time it must be done,’ Titus says on House Floor. But Dr. Joe Heck believes this bill is not what must be done. He organized a protest rally and plans to run against Titus in the next election.” (“Heck organizes healthcare reform protest outside Titus office,” KTNV, 03/22/10)

“Businesses Wondering: What Does Health Reform Mean For Us?” (KANE COUNTY CHRONICLE): “Local business owners and executives know they have a lot on the line after Congress passed its historic, mammoth health insurance reform legislation late Sunday night. But what they do not know right now is precisely how the legislation will affect them. ‘They’re talking about billions in new taxes, thousands of new IRS agents and 118 new government agencies as a result of this bill,’ said Ron Bullock, president of St. Charles-based Bison Gear & Engineering. ‘We don’t yet know everything that the bill will do. But as a businessperson, I can say that does not sound promising.’ On Sunday night, the House voted 219-212 to approve the health insurance reform package. Supporters, including U.S. Rep. Bill Foster, D-Batavia, hailed the package for its potential to expand health coverage to millions of uninsured Americans, while reducing the federal deficit over the next 20 years, according to an analysis from the Congressional Budget Office.” (Jonathan Bilyk, “Businesses wondering: What does health reform mean for us?” Kane County Chronicle, 03/22/10)

“Experts Weigh Fallout For Democrats” (DETROIT NEWS): “Moments after Rep. Bart Stupak announced Sunday he’d reached a deal on abortion that paved the way for him to support the sweeping health care bill, Republicans pounced, hinting at how both parties intend to use the divisive issue in the high-stakes November elections. ‘Stupak Group To Vote “YES” On Taxpayer Funded Abortion,’ the headline screamed in an e-mail to reporters from the National Republican Campaign Committee. ‘Supposed-Pro Life Dem Folds Just Hours Before Vote, Takes Others Down With Him.’ Stupak, D-Menominee, is not just getting hit by Republicans over health care: A former Democratic supporter, Connie Saltonstall, launched a primary challenge against him, out of frustration, she said, that he was willing to derail an overhaul of health care because of abortion. Stupak isn’t considered by veteran political analysts to be vulnerable.” (Deb Price, “Experts weigh fallout for Democrats,” Detroit News, 03/22/10)

“Perriello Defends Vote Among Protest” (NBC 29 – CHARLOTTESVILLE): “Some Charlottesville voters are outraged at the passing of President Obama’s health care reform. Monday, they took their frustrations straight to Congressman Tom Perriello’s Charlottesville office. They came with signs, pink slips and some lots of emotion; some 5th District voters are disgusted with Perriello. ‘The government continually seems to be acting fiscally irresponsibly, making it harder and harder for us to take care of ourselves,’ protested Barbara Crispens of Charlottesville.” (Julie Bercik, “Perriello Defends Vote Among Protest,” NBC 29, 03/22/10)

“Halvorson’s Vote For Health Care Could Cost Her, Some Say” (FOX TV CHICAGO): “With the vote behind them many members of Congress now have to convince voters they did the right thing. Debbie Halvorson, who represents Illinois’ 11th Congressional District, is one who may be facing an uphill battle. The first-term Democrat represents what has been a historically Republican-leaning area in Chicago’s south and southwest suburbs. Adam Kinzinger, the Republican nominee for that seat, was talking health care reform at a town hall meeting in New Lenox Monday night. ‘We’re gonna take the House of Representatives back in 2010 and in 2012 we’re gonna take the Presidency of the United States back,’ Kinzinger told the crowd of more than 100 people. The possible political fallout in November had people at the meeting excited. ‘This is the first time that I have become this politically motivated from what I see going on in Washington,’ said Dan Ferrari who came to show his support.” (Craig Wall, “Halvorson’s Vote for Health Care Could Cost Her, Some Say,” Fox TV Chicago, 03/22/10)

“Local Analyst: Health Care Vote Could Cost Democrats Majority Rule” (KUSA-TV): “The vote by the U.S. House of Representatives on health care reform is being called by some the most politically risky in more than a decade. Ciruli says he believes the vote could cost the Democrats their majority in the house and make re-election more challenging for representatives in districts that are politically competitive. He believes Rep. Betsy Markey (D-Colo.), who serves in the traditionally Republican 4th District, will feel that challenge. Markey has announced her support for the health care bill. ‘The vote is going to be absolutely critical for a candidate like Markey. She’s in a tough race. It’s in a district that leans slightly Republican. She’s a good candidate. She’s raised a lot of money, but this is going to be one of those votes that she will have to defend from now through November,’ Ciruli said.” (Dave Delozier, “Local analyst: Health care vote could cost Democrats majority rule,” KUSA-TV, 03/21/10)

“Weld Commissioners Call On Rep. Betsy Markey To Vote Against Health Care Bill” (GREELEY TRIBUNE): “The Board of Weld County Commissioners has entered the debate about federal health care reform legislation. The commissioners sent a letter on Thursday to U.S. Rep. Betsy Markey, D-Colo., calling on her to vote against the reform plan. In the letter, the commissioners said they understand reform is needed, but not in this form. “The proposed legislation is not the answer,” the letter stated. “In fact, jobs will be lost, taxes will increase and quality health care will cost even more. As a nation, we cannot afford this health care bill.” (“Weld commissioners call on Rep. Betsy Markey to vote against health care bill,” Greeley Tribune, 03/21/10)

“Analysis: Murphy Vote Could Change Campaign Dynamics” (GLENS FALLS POST-STAR): “U.S. Rep. Scott Murphy’s decision to vote ‘yes’ for President Obama’s health care reform plan undoubtedly will be hashed and rehashed on the campaign trail between now and November. Democrats and Republicans alike say it will make the 20th Congressional District more heated and more expensive than if Murphy had voted against it. “Let the lines be drawn in the sand,” said Saratoga Democratic Chairman Larry Bulman before the vote Sunday. ‘Either way, he was going to have an opponent whether he voted ‘yay’ or ‘nay.’ Now we’re going to have a defining issue to talk about.’” (Maury Thompson, “Analysis: Murphy Vote Could Change Campaign Dynamics,” Glens Falls Post-Star, 03/21/10)

“Arizona Democrats Risk Re-Election By Voting For Health Care Reform Bill” (ARIZONA REPUBLIC): “Arizona’s three most moderate congressional Democrats voted Sunday for a sweeping health-care-reform bill, setting themselves up for even tougher re-election fights in districts already considered vulnerable to a Republican takeover. Reps. Gabrielle Giffords, Ann Kirkpatrick and Harry Mitchell were among the 219 Democrats who voted to pass the historic bill, which is projected to extend coverage to 32 million Americans by 2019 and cost $938 billion over 10 years. All three represent so-called swing districts. Republicans believe all three ensured their defeats, but Democrats and others say they may be helped by popular portions of the bill that take effect before the elections. ‘I think it will cost them the election,’ said Joanna Burgos, Western regional press secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee. ‘It’s going to be just so incredibly difficult for any of them to call themselves an independent after passionately backing Obama’s marquee legislation.’” (Erin Kelly, “Arizona Democrats risk re-election by voting for health care reform bill,” Arizona Republic, 03/21/10)

“Last-Minute Protests Held At McNerney’s Office” (KGO): “Jerry McNerney announced he will support the health care legislation after reading through the entire proposal this weekend. He was on the fence, partly because he comes from one of the Bay Area’s most conservative districts. District 11 includes parts of the East Bay along with the Central Valley. Opponents of the health care reform bill protested the Congressman’s decision Saturday. Their message is short and to the point. They want him to vote against the hotly-debated health care bill.” (Lisa Amin Gulezian, “Last-minute protests held at McNerney’s office,” KGO, 03/20/10)

“Baron Hill Says Yes, Even If It Costs Him Re-Election” (WHAS-TV): “Southern Indiana Congressman Baron Hill (D) could be the deciding vote on President Barack Obama’s massive health care overhaul. He’s been on the fence. With that huge vote set for Sunday in Washington, Hill now tells us he will vote ‘yes.’ President Obama rallied lawmakers on Capitol Hill Saturday. He is calling Sunday’s vote the single most important step on healthcare since Medicare. 32-million uninsured Americans would receive coverage and insurance companies would no longer be able to deny service because of pre-existing medical conditions. More democrats pledged their vote and Baron Hill was convinced it’s the right plan.” (“Baron Hill says yes, even if it costs him re-election,” WHAS-TV, 03/20/10)

“Group Rallies Against Health Care Legislation” (GRAND JUNCTION DAILY SENTINEL): “About 60 people took to the streets midday Friday to wave yellow Don’t-Tread-On-Me flags and gin up opposition to health care changes before Congress. Opponents, many of them from tea party and other conservative movements, chose the intersection of Fifth Street and Rood Avenue because of its proximity to the offices of U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Colo., whose 3rd Congressional District includes most of the Western Slope. Participants yelled, ‘Kill the bill,’ and one waved a sign declaring, ‘Custer did not listen either.’” (Gary Harmon, “Group rallies against health care legislation,” Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, 03/19/10)

BUSINESSES ALREADY VOCAL ON EFFECTS OF DEMS’ GOVERNMENT HEALTHCARE TAKEOVER

“Excise Tax Has Local Medical Device Makers Concerned” (MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO): “The new health care law will bring a raft of changes to the medical industry, including an excise tax on many medical devices, and the tax is causing a lot of consternation in one of Minnesota’s most prominent industries. The medical device excise tax aims to raise $20 billion over ten years when it goes into effect in 2013. It will apply to a wide range of medical device products–from bed pans to stents used for propping open clogged arteries. Minnesota is teeming with companies that make those products. Med tech giants Medtronic, Boston Scientific, St. Jude Medical, and many smaller firms have operations in the state. ‘Minnesota is going to take about 25 percent of the hit on the total tax levied against the medical technology industry,’ said Don Gerhardt, the chief executive of LifeScience Alley, a Minnesota-based trade group representing several industries, including medical device makers. According to LifeScience Alley, Minnesota has the highest per capita med tech employment of any state. That makes Gerhardt worried about the impact of the excise tax here. ‘We’re not happy about it at all,’ Gerhardt said.” (Annie Baxter, “Excise tax has local medical device makers concerned,” Minnesota Public Radio, 03/29/10)

“Sallie Mae Disappointed By Reconciliation Law” (WMBB-TV): “Inside the health care reform law is a massive change to student loans for college. Seven hundred Bay County residents could soon be on the unemployment line thanks to a reconciliation bill passed in Washington last night. Some were hopeful that the reconciliation law would help the private student loan industry but it didn’t include any changes to the original law passed earlier in the week. Now student loans will come straight from the government instead of having the option of private lenders like Sallie Mae. Senior Vice President of Sallie Mae’s Lynn Haven branch, Renee Mang, said she broke the news to her employees Thursday. She said they won’t know for several weeks what this means for their branch but that her employees are disappointed and heartbroken. But she’s looking forward to hear what Congressman Allen Boyd can do for them. He vowed to protect those jobs on several occasions. In a phone interview with News13 on Monday, Boyd said he thinks there will still be a number of services needed by the private loan sector and that Lynn Haven deserves those jobs.” (Mary Scott Speigner, “Sallie Mae Disappointed by Reconciliation Law,” WMBB-TV, 03/26/10)

“Caterpillar Takes Hit On Health Care” (THE WALL STREET JOURNAL): “Caterpillar Inc. said Wednesday it will take a $100 million charge to earnings this quarter to reflect additional taxes stemming from newly enacted U.S. health-care legislation.” (Bob Tita, “Caterpillar Takes Hit On Health Care,” The Wall Street Journal, 3/25/10)

CATERPILLAR SPOKESMAN: “From our point of view, a tax increase like this cannot come at a worse time.” (Bob Tita, “Caterpillar Takes Hit On Health Care,” The Wall Street Journal, 3/25/10)

“Deere Sees $150 Mln Hit From Healthcare Reform” (REUTERS): “Farm equipment maker Deere & Co. expects after-tax expenses to rise by $150 million this year as a result of the healthcare reform law President Barack Obama signed this week. Most of the higher expense will come in Deere’s second quarter, the company said on Thursday. The expense was not included in the company’s earlier 2010 forecast, which called for net income of about $1.3 billion….The law could raise expenses for large U.S. employers. Industrial companies, which typically have large numbers of retirees, may be among those facing the biggest bill.” (Nick Zieminski, “Deere sees $150 mln hit from healthcare reform,” Reuters, 03/25/10)

“Beware The ‘Jobs Killer,’” (THE BOSTON HERALD): “A dire warning from Bay State medical-device companies that a new sales tax in the federal health-care law could force their plants – and thousands of jobs – out of the country has rattled Gov. Deval Patrick, a staunch backer of the law and pal President Obama.” (Jay Fitzgerald, “Beware the ‘jobs killer,’” The Boston Herald, 03/25/10)

“‘This bill is a jobs killer,’ said Ernie Whiton, chief financial officer of Chelmsford’s Zoll Medical Corp., which employs about 650 people in Massachusetts. Many of those employees work in Zoll’s local manufacturing facility making heart defibrillators.” (Jay Fitzgerald, “Beware the ‘jobs killer,’” The Boston Herald, 03/25/10)

“‘We could be forced to (move) manufacturing overseas if we can’t pass along these costs to our customers,’ said Whiton.” (Jay Fitzgerald, “Beware the ‘jobs killer,’” The Boston Herald, 03/25/10)

“Loan Providers Forced To Cut Employees” (INDIANA DAILY STUDENT): “While many Democrats celebrated the passage of health care reform Sunday night, several people in Indiana took a more somber view on the portion of the legislation that included student loan reform. Among those disheartened by Congress’s actions were Sallie Mae employees…..The effects of this portion of the health care bill have concerned several of the 35,000 people employed in the lending industry. Phillip Walsh, a senior director at Sallie Mae’s office in Fishers, said the company will lose approximately 2,500 of its 8,500 jobs.” (Holly Heerdink, “Loan providers forced to cut employees,” Indiana Daily Student, 3/25/2010)

“Ski Resorts Worry Health Care Reform Will Have Chilling Effect” (NEW HAMPSHIRE UNION LEADER): “The state’s seasonal tourism industry is only now beginning to realize that it could get hammered by the new health care reform law.” (John DiStaso, “Ski Resorts Worry Health Care Reform Will Have Chilling Effect,” New Hampshire Union Leader, 3/25/10)

“The bill signed into law on Tuesday by President Barack Obama fines businesses that do not provide health insurance to full-time employees who work more than 120 days a year. The assessment is $2,000 per employee, which, according to SkiNH lobbyist Bruce Berke and group president Alice Pearce, could mean as much as $1 million in fines to the big ski resorts, some of which hire as many as 500 seasonal workers.” (John DiStaso, “Ski Resorts Worry Health Care Reform Will Have Chilling Effect,” New Hampshire Union Leader, 3/25/10)

“Obama Tax’s $14 Billion Charge Starts at Caterpillar” (BLOOMBERG): “Honeywell International Inc., the Morris Township, New Jersey-based maker of controls for aircraft and buildings, said in a January regulatory filing that it saw a ‘potential negative 4 cents to 5 cents per-share impact’ from the legislation. Honeywell is still reviewing the law and will keep monitoring the situation, spokesman Rob Ferris said. ‘This will mostly impact older companies with legacy costs,’ said Jeffrey Sprague, whose firm Vertical Research Partners LLC follows multi-industry and electrical equipment companies. He estimates Honeywell’s possible cost at about $42 million after tax.” (Edmond Lococo, Ryan Donmoyer and Pat Wechsler, “Obama Tax’s $14 Billion Charge Starts at Caterpillar,” Bloomberg, 3/25/10)

“S.C. Medicaid Coverage to Expand; Cost to Soar by $914 Million” (THE STATE): “New federal health care legislation will cost the state of South Carolina and its taxpayers $914 million. That cost – the total of spending from July 1 to 2019 – will come as the state adds 480,000 low-income children and adults to a state health insurance program, as required by the new law, according to estimates by the state Department of Health and Human Services. The expansion represents a 4.4 percent increase in the $20.9 billion the state would have spent on Medicaid during that nine-year period, adding roughly $100 million a year to the state’s costs. With the state already facing a likely $1 billion budget shortfall next year, Republican lawmakers – who control the General Assembly – said the additional health care costs are one more reason they oppose implementing the law, which President Barack Obama signed Monday.” (John O’Connor, “S.C. Medicaid Coverage to Expand; Cost to Soar by $914 Million,” The State, 3/25/10)

“Health Policy Raises Red Flags At Steamboat Ski Area” (STEAM BOAT PILOT): “Steamboat Ski Area officials said Tuesday that the federal health care overhaul could cost their business as much as $2 million a year beginning in 2014. The health care overhaul includes a policy that would assess a fine, per employee, to large businesses that do not provide health care to full-time workers. The policy’s potential impact is ringing alarm bells with the Colorado ski industry, which has a large number of uninsured seasonal employees who work enough days to qualify as full-time workers.”

(Mike Lawrence, “Health Policy Raises Red Flags At Steamboat Ski Area,” Steam Boat Pilot, 3/24/10)

“‘The potential impact to Colorado Ski Country member areas is somewhere between $9 million and $14 million in penalties (per year),’ Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp. President Chris Diamond said Tuesday, citing a Colorado Ski Country USA estimate. ‘It’s a stunning blow to any large employer like ours that employs seasonal staff.’” (Mike Lawrence, “Health Policy Raises Red Flags At Steamboat Ski Area,” Steam Boat Pilot, 3/24/10)

By Code Red