Quote:
|
Originally Posted by n0nsensical
Healthcare may not be a constitutional right, but then neither is free universal education. I wonder if Cyn would oppose that were it under consideration. It doesn't really matter if it's in the constitution because Congress is free to pass a LAW providing for a national health care program at any time. In fact that's exactly what they did in the 60s (for certain groups) with Medicare and Medicaid. Providing universal healthcare would not have been considered within the scope of the federal government until roughly 1950, but it could certainly be done by legislation now. I personally would be all for an amendment making healthcare a constitutional right, but it's such a loaded topic and so difficult to pass an amendment it won't be happening anytime soon.
Fortunately there is better hope for individual states. There are several states currently considering universal health insurance. I have no doubt it will happen within a few years in California at least.
|
Free universal education is not a constitutional right, which is why you are not entitled to education at a collegiate level. Up until college, there is subsidized education via the public school systems, set up by each distict and state. Just like the current healthcase system. There is basic healthcare in Calilfornia already, just like in most states. There are many programs that assist the healthcare system from the city, state, and federal levels.
The ideas as to what the federal government should be responsible for is enumerated directly in the constitution. Education and Healthcare are not included in that and should not be.
Congress passing laws have nothing to do with something being a Constitutional right. Congress passing an Airlines Passenger's Bill of Rights does not equate that to the Constitution in any manner.
I think that the states should decide if they wish to create their own universal healthcare systems. That's on them and their ability to deal with their tax base. Many elderly flock to Las Vegas and Florida because it benefits them most, in taxes and in medical care and costs. Why should it be any different for healthcare and other "lifestyle" amenities?
__________________
I don't care if you are black, white, purple, green, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, hippie, cop, bum, admin, user, English, Irish, French, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, indian, cowboy, tall, short, fat, skinny, emo, punk, mod, rocker, straight, gay, lesbian, jock, nerd, geek, Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Independent, driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, either you're an asshole or you're not.
|