Like about a dozen other states, Florida is debating a proposed amendment to its state constitution that would try to block, at least symbolically, much of the proposed federal health care overhaul on the grounds that it tramples individual liberty...

...Insurance companies, hospitals and other health care interests have been positioning themselves in statehouses around the country to influence the outcome of the proposed health care overhaul. Around the 2008 election, the groups that provide health care contributed about $102 million to state political campaigns across the country, surpassing the $89 million the same donors spent at the federal level, according to the institute... Read the full article

Comment: Governor Pawlenty has talked about using "states rights" to opt out of federal reforms, Rep. Tom Emmer, Republican gubernatorial candidate has put forth a proposal on a constitutional amendment guaranteeing a right to buy private insurance.  They aren't trying to protect consumers and constituents, they are trying to protect the insurance industry. After the federal reform bill is passed, the fight will come to the states.  Help the Minnesota Universal Health Care Coalition be prepared to fight back.  Please make a  donation now!