Rep. Chris Malone: Health care freedom

One of the biggest lies flying around the last several years is that Republicans do not want people to have health insurance and that is why we oppose Obamacare. This is completely false. Of course we support everyone having access to health coverage. We simply have a different view on how to make that happen.

First, Obamacare requires everyone to purchase a health insurance plan or else be punished with a fine at the end of the year. Republicans support the freedom to choose whether to purchase a health insurance plan.

Second, Obamacare requires people to purchase bloated plans that include benefits an individual may not need or even want. Republicans support individual freedom.

This summer, should the Supreme Court rule Obamacare unconstitutional, Republicans must stand ready to replace it with meaningful health care reform based on the principles of freedom. Freedom to choose a plan that best fits an individual’s needs. Freedom to keep a trusted physician. Freedom even to choose not to purchase a plan.

If Obamacare is struck down, tens of thousands of people in North Carolina and millions nationwide could lose health coverage. It is my hope that Republicans will rise to the occasion and lead an effort to quickly pass health care legislation based on freedom.

The writer, a Republican, represents North Carolina District 35.

This story was originally published May 28, 2015 at 5:29 PM with the headline "Rep. Chris Malone: Health care freedom."