California Senate Votes For Healthy California Act

SACRAMENTO, CA – In a historic vote on Thursday, the California Senate voted to approve the Healthy California Act also known as Senate Bill 562. If approved by the Legislature, the Governor and by California voters it would make the state the first to enact universal health coverage. Senator Ricardo Lara and Toni G. Atkins introduced the State Bill to create a publicly-run health care system that will provide every Californian with quality healthcare.

“Despite the incredible progress California has made, millions still do not have access to health insurance and millions more can’t afford the high deductibles and copays and often forgo care,” said Senator Ricardo Lara. “For me, this issue is personal. This is the right fight, and the right thing to do for California’s families, children, and seniors.”

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This bill if approved will provide comprehensive healthcare which would include dental and mental health coverage. It would also provide Californians with a choice of doctors rather than limiting them with networks. “The Congressional Budget Office found that House Republicans’ bill would take healthcare away from 23 million people and raise the cost of healthcare, especially for older Americans and those with health conditions,” California state officials said.

If the Legislature passes the Healthy California Act, State officials said that Californians will actually spend less than they do today on health care. Those who purchase insurance now, including families, businesses, and all other American’s will see a substantial saving. Others still feel that SB 562 will force Californians out of the current healthcare that they may be content with. They feel like the government-run program may reduce the coverage that they are now content with.

At this time, over 7% of California residents remain uninsured. The Healthy California Act will cover these and all other Californians.