Philosophically, I still think that we need to reform the health care system and guarantee everyone access to affordable health care — if for no other reason that keeping people healthy protects us all.

HOWEVER — as of today, I think that I have stopped supporting the current plan. The “mandated” cost that is being discussed is 10% of income. And this is the second time that I’ve heard this 10% “reasonable limit” that people could/would/should be required to pay under the Senate plan.

While I understand the need for everyone to have insurance, so the pool of insured is large enough to support those who get sick (that’s the way insurance works). If everyone is to be required to be part of the insurance “pool” - then the average cost should definitely be controlled.

However, 10% of income is ridiculous! Someone who cannot afford healthcare now, usually cannot afford it because it costs too much. Who in their right mind thinks that these people can then afford to pay 10% of their income for healthcare? That may be less expensive that some of the current plans available right now, but that doesn’t make it affordable.