As Congress moves to a crucial decision on health care in Washington, the Missouri House in Jefferson City approves a constitutional amendment rebuking the federal efforts.
If approved by the legislature, the proposed constitutional amendment prohibiting Missourians from being compelled to participate in any health care system would go to a vote of the people. HJR 48, 50 & 57 is half-way there. The House voted 109-to-46 in favor and sent it to the Senate.
The top Democrat in the House, Paul LeVota of Independence, questioned why supporters would want to set up a direct confrontation with Congress by amending the state constitution.
“And, so, what this House Joint Resolution is basically putting in our constitution is that we don’t follow part of federal law,” LeVota said during House debate.
Republican Brian Nieves of Washington responded by calling the move a push-back against the federal government.
“We would basically be drawing a line in the sand and saying, ‘No, federal government, we as a state are not going to recognize your encroachment and your attempt to force this on us.’ So, yeah, I guess you’re right,” Nieves told LeVota.
Meanwhile, in Congress, efforts are being made to secure the votes necessary to pass President Obama’s health care overhaul legislation.
AUDIO: Brent Martin reports [:60 MP3]
AUDIO: Rep. Nieves questions Rep. LeVota during House floor debate [15 min MP3]