As the debate over reforming health care goes on in Washington … the owner of a Missouri small business offers an alternative to what is being discussed in the Nation’s Capital.
Jim Henderson, owner of Dynamic Sales Company – a St. Louis-based contractor and industrial supply company – and the Chairman of the Missouri Leadership Council of the National Federation of Independent Business, opposes any government mandates regarding health care and small business.
“When you pass a mandate, now you’re telling me – the small business owner – how I have to spend my money,” said Henderson in an interview with the Missourinet. “It should be my decision. We’ve worked hard to earn the money at this company. We should decide how we’re going to spend it – not have somebody sitting in Washington, D.C., saying here’s how you’re going to spend it and if you don’t we’re going to penalize you.”
Henderson, who provides health insurance to his half dozen employees, says the current system would be improved if he and other small business owners were able to negotiate with the insurance companies the same way that larger businesses do.
“I have a problem with the way the insurance groups are treating us,” said Henderson.
But reform would not be necessary if Henderson could give higher wages to his money and to allow them to shop for the best policies.
“I, as an employer, can take the money that I spend on health insurance, increase my employees’ pay, and let them decide what plan best suits their need and their families’ needs,” said Henderson. “Because when I decide on a policy for the company my first responsibility is the financial welfare of the company because if that fails I don’t have employees to employ, anyway.”
Henderson is keeping a close watch on the debate in Washington, hoping any solution reached will not force small companies into situations that will put them out of business.
Download/Listen: Steve Walsh reports (:60 MP3)
