HOUSE BILL REPORT
HJM 4005

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Reported by House Committee On:
Health Care & Wellness

Brief Description: Requesting that Congress enact a universal health care system.

Sponsors: Representatives Moeller, Takko, Appleton, Cody, Dunshee, Clibborn, Green, Pedersen, Flannigan, Hunt, Roberts, Darneille, Williams, Hasegawa, Kagi, Simpson, Kenney, Conway, Santos, McDermott and Ormsby.

Brief History:

Health Care & Wellness: 2/21/07, 2/22/07 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requests Congress to guarantee every citizen is entitled to receive all medically necessary care under a universal health care system.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE & WELLNESS

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 7 members: Representatives Cody, Chair; Morrell, Vice Chair; Barlow, Moeller, Pedersen, Schual-Berke and Seaquist.

Minority Report: Do not pass. Signed by 4 members: Representatives Hinkle, Ranking Minority Member; Alexander, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Campbell and Condotta.

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Approximately 46 million Americans do not have health care coverage. There is currently a mix of employer-sponsored health care coverage and public financing for health coverage through the Medicaid, Medicare, and State Children's Health Insurance Program. Individuals who do not qualify for public health coverage and work for an employer who does not offer health coverage cannot, in many cases, afford to purchase health care coverage.

Summary of Bill:

Congress is requested to enact legislation guaranteeing that every person in the United States is entitled to receive all medically necessary care under a universal health care system. The system would include the following: care is affordable, cost-efficient, provides comprehensive benefits, promotes prevention and early intervention, provides parity for mental health, and promotes quality and better health outcomes.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) None.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: None.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.