Once again we see a small class of people have persuaded politicians that their situation is so grave that their misery should be paid for by other people. Illinois is once again proving that economic literacy is rather rare with politicians, ignoring the fact that by distorting the healthcare marketplace (and adding to the 1,600 mandates that raise insurance premiums ) will make that same insurance more expensive for its citizens:
Illinois autism bill would mandate insurance coverage of $36,000 a year
Insurance companies would be required to cover autism diagnosis and treatment up to $36,000 a year under legislation sent to the governor Thursday.
The action marks a victory for advocates who say early intervention and therapy is key to helping children with autism gain communication and social skills.
Under the proposal, which Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s office said he plans to sign, insurance companies would be required to cover treatment until a patient turns 21. About 4,500 families across the state will qualify for coverage.
Lawmakers said it’s needed for families struggling with the emotional and financial tolls of autism.
"Some of these families [are] mortgaging their homes, they’re living with relatives, they’re accumulating a lot of debt," said Senate sponsor James DeLeo (D-Chicago). "People have filed for bankruptcy in order to finance the medical services for children with autism."
Before I get labeled as cold hearted, I can feel for these parents. The problem that I have is that now others that may need assistance just as much may now see that solution placed out of reach financially. Instead of mandating coverage, why not make it possible to purchase a la carte?
And I have to say it – one cannot mandate or legislate all risk of being alive. One cannot be protected against all outcomes, be they good or bad. One always has to remember TANSTAAFL – if there is a cost to something that is not paid by the actual consumer, then someone else has to pay.
And that is one of the consequences of big government – it raises the cost of living to all of us via taxes and higher cost of goods and services. In doing so, it constrains individual freedom by limiting our options and our choice to choose.
For those of you who feel that this is a "got mine" rant, let me suggest this – what is wrong with doing something privately? Start a fund, do fund raising without the force of government? There’s nothing to say that you cannot – why is it that government seemingly the answer to all the ills? Are YOU not able to do something?
