Mandatory Health Insurance

The newest healthcare proposal apparently will require Americans to have health insurance, in a similar way drivers are required to have car insurance. On the surface, such an idea doesn't seem unreasonable (especially given the huge costs of the uninsured). But Left Right and Center broke this idea down quite succinctly - by pointing out the difference between a right and a privilege.

Driving is a privilege. It is not a right. The government grants you the right to drive (via driver's licenses) if you own insurance and pass driving tests so you don't cause undo liability on others. Also, you can choose not to drive if you can't afford or don't way to pay insurance.

But life is not a privilege. It is a right. Your right to life exists prior to government. For the US government to force people to buy private insurance to protect their health is unjust. Further, you are unable to "opt out," without dying.

Lastly, they pointed out the cost. Roughly $15,000 a year. That's a lot of money for a middle income person making $70,000. Nevermind a low income.

How this healthcare thing became such a mess, I know not.