[JThiessen]

I can't help but think that this "penalty" was driven by the insurance constituents. They see their bottom line falling, and the only way they can help pad it is to make sure everyone buys coverage.

I understand the "explained" reason behind the penalty - uninsured's cost to us at the ER's, which I'm sure is a huge amount. However, there has to be a better way. I also cant see how they will enforce it.

I still say that they need to work on capping the cost of medical care instead of finding different ways to pay for it. They also need to ban lawsuits against providers, which I think is one of the major contributors to the cost of med care. I saw a report on the news the other night where they estimate that 30 -50% of tests they run are CYA (cover your ass) tests.