Maryland Proposes a Univerval Health Care Plan

Maryland health advocates have unveiled a proposal for universal health care that expands the federal-state Medicaid program for the poor and subsidizes small businesses to help them afford insurance. Under the plan, proposed by Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative, more than 700,000 uninsured Maryland residents would be able to join an insurance pool to obtain more affordable rates. The program, estimated to cost $15.5 billion in the first five years, would be funded through a 2 percent payroll tax and an increase in alcohol and tobacco taxes. Policymakers expect the proposal to take years to pass but it is similar to a plan adopted in Massachusetts.

I think it's time to fix America's healthcare system. As it seemed to be a big issue on the 2008 presidential campaign, I really hope that our government will make healthcare reform a real priority. What do you think?