Bill would help ease insurance pain

We're way too familiar with this scenario: small businesses trying to get health coverage for their employees, self-employed individuals or workers who lost their coverage because of cuts or layoffs, all trying to buy insurance in the private market only to be denied because of pre-existing conditions, or even because of their age, gender or where they live.

Consumers are not getting a break in this recession. And while incomes barely rise, insurance companies stop at nothing to raise their premiums on hardworking individuals and families, who often have to choose between health care or affording basic necessities.

I commend State Rep. Greg Harris for introducing legislation aimed at reforming the insurance industry, HB 3923. And I commend AARP and other groups for supporting it. And I urge my legislator, State Rep. JoAnn Osmond, who is a member of the House's Health Care Availability and Access Committee, to help make a difference by supporting this legislation. This can help bring much-needed fairness and access to individuals, families and small businesses.

Darlene Clauson

Antioch