Medicare cuts, debt part of health care bill

The latest Democrat health care bill is projected to result in $940 billion of spending over 10 years. Is it wise to add such a huge, costly program?

Consider - Social Security is now running a cash deficit. Congressional Budget Office figures show a projected cash deficit for the year ending in September of $29 billion. This means no Social Security surplus to spend. Instead, Congress will have to borrow another $29 billion.

Democrats say their health care plan will reduce the deficit. How can they do that with all the new spending? What they don't want us to think about is their plan to cut Medicare. Some $425 billion in combined cuts and hoped-for savings is projected. They expect to collect $101 billion from individuals, employers and insurance companies through penalties, taxes on income no longer sheltered by health expense deductions, and excise taxes.

Will individuals and employers really stand for that? Won't they figure out ways to avoid having to pay so much tax? The legislation also includes $406 billion of “other revenues.” Can you say “more taxes”?

If you are on Medicare, or are concerned about Social Security, and especially if you are a 20-something who will have to pay the rest of your life for the huge debt being added by this Congress, you should call your representative and senators, and take whatever other action you can to stop the Democrats from passing their health care bill.

Jim Radig

Cedar Rapids