The Need for Universal Health Care

A public hearing focusing on universal health care was held at the Croatian Club in Aliquippa, PA. The USW, SOAR and a number of other labor organizations sponsored the event. Ohio Congressman and former presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich chaired the hearing for national health insurance that was organized by the Fourth Congressional District Committee for National Health Care. After a few brief remarks, District 10 Director John DeFazio introduced USW International Secretary-Treasurer Jim English, who spoke about the need for change in the American health care system which is currently inefficient, expensive and inadequate, leaving millions of Americans uninsured and underinsured. 

Sixteen local citizens testified about the impact of the current system. Among them were: Assistant Director of Collective Bargaining Services Department, Jim Stewart, Local 8183 President Al Smith; USW Health Care Organizing Coordinator, Maria Somma; and USW Health Care Workers Council Coordinator, Leslie Curtis, SOAR District 10 Board Member Jean Friday; SOAR Chapter 20/20 Secretary-Treasurer, Pat Pudik; and, SOAR Chapter 20/20 member Carol McMahon. 

After hearing testimony, Congressman Kucinich explained the national health care legislation that he supports and co-sponsors, H.R. 676. He then listened to statements and addressed questions from members of the community.  The Congressman explained why he feels that H.R. 676 — introduced by Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI) — is one of the most important pieces of legislation in Congress today.  This bill would provide health care coverage for all residents of the United States for all medically-necessary services through Medicare, without out-of-pocket costs such as premiums, deductibles or co-pays.  He reminded the attendees that, while it may seem like an expensive proposal, it actually would cost less than the current system, and will cover everyone.

The hearing was one of eighteen similar events being planned around the country in coordination with Healthcare-NOW as a part of an effort to educate the public on H.R. 676.