The debate continues in Washington on whether to move forward with the Health Care Reform Act, commonly called Obamacare. Many Republicans promise to repeal the law, although a full repeal seems unlikely. We hit the streets to find out what you think.
So far, more than 30 attempts have been made in Congress to defund or abolish the Affordable Care Act. In the latest move, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas suggested we hold off implementing the act until the economy improves.
"I think we should do that," said Jeff Pettiss.
"It's a good idea," added Ken Morvan. "The company I work for, it's already costing a couple thousand dollars per employee."
Although he's opposed to the Affordable Care Act, Morvan said it wouldn't have made a difference if the people had voted on it.
"It probably wouldn't have mattered if we voted anyway," he said. "They would have done it in Washington."
Others disagree. Conrad Kresley said the people did have a say.
"During the elections," he pointed out. "I think this is a settled matter."
Right now, the application for Obamacare is more than 10 pages of questions. It's raised some concerns that it could scare off the very people who need care most. Kresley said it's no different than the paperwork associated with any insurance plan.
"Insurance paperwork is just as complicated, maybe even more so," he said.
One thing many people we spoke with agreed on: the act is tricky to understand.
"My doctor, I asked him about three weeks ago what was going to happen," Morvan said, "and he doesn't know."
Let us know what you think.
1. One U-S Senator (Ted Cruz, TX) suggested we should hold off implementing Obamacare until the economy improves because of the costs. What do you think of that idea?
2. We get to vote on many costly local and community programs/laws, do you think you should have had the right to vote YES or NO to Obamacare before it became law?
3. A
Government Accountability Office report recently noted that if the government fails to contain the costs of the new health care services, those costs would be added to the national debt over time. Do you feel confident the government can control the costs?
4. Do you have any idea how to apply for health care or assistance from the government?
5. Most people will be encouraged to apply online for health care or assistance with costs. But here's the application if you need it. What do you think of it?
(
download and print)
