Vermont Employers Testify on Healthcare Reform Proposal

The House Health Care and Senate Health and Welfare committees took testimony during a public hearing Wednesday night at the Statehouse. The committees are reviewing healthcare reform legislation, and this hearing sought employer input on the bill. Vermont House Speaker Shap Smith says the comments expressed the wide ranging concerns many Vermont businesses have regarding the healthcare debate.

How quickly the state should advance reform is a concern for business. Many testifying at the public hearing appeared to favor a go-slow approach. Business Resource Services Executive Director Tom McKeown says businesses must have options.

Some small-business owners talked about struggling with rapid increases in the cost of health insurance. Employers' Health Alliance promotes "evidence-based" healthcare reform. Managing Director Craig Fuller says the Legislature should enact the federal Affordable Care Act.

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Source: WAMC Northeast Public Radio