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Plans in Colorado would block health care overhaul

Posted: Dec 31, 2009 8:56 AM by Associated Press
Updated: Dec 31, 2009 8:56 AM

Federal health insurance reforms are still taking shape, but at least two efforts are under way in Colorado to blunt possible impacts.

Jon Caldara of the Independence Institute said Tuesday he is trying to develop a ballot proposal that would bar the state from requiring its citizens to purchase health insurance, ensure Coloradans can pay out-of-pocket for health care expenses, and allow them to purchase plans from other states.

Meanwhile, freshman state Rep. Cindy Acree plans to urge her colleagues to have Colorado opt out of congressional health care reforms. The Aurora Republican argues the state can't afford the proposal and that the federal government is usurping states' rights.

Conservatives and libertarians have proposed similar plans around the country.

Topics: health care overhaul, reforms, colorado, legislature, ballot measure, conservatives, libertarians, around the country, aurora, republican, freshman, congressional health care, states rights, usurping, citizens, insurance, expenses, afford, jon caldara, independence institute, rep. cindy acree