April 11, 2023 By

Written by Bob Mason and Walter Tsou, MD, MPH; updated by Cathy O’Neill

State-based SP organizations

Healthcare for All PA  https://www.healthcare4allpa.org/

National Affiliations

Board members w/ affiliations in Physicians for a National Health Program, Health Care—Now,

One Payer States, Progressive Democrats of America, Democratic Socialists of America

State-based SP bills

To be introduced in the House for 2023-24: Family and Business Health Security Act

(Prior session, HB 1688/SB 1014 “Pennsylvania Health Care Plan”)

Summary: Covers all medically necessary treatment including outpatient services, hospitalization, mental health, D&A, prescriptions, dental, vision, medical devices, and long term care for all Pennsylvania residents who file a state income tax form.  No premiums, no copays, no deductibles. Freedom to choose any willing provider.  Revenue includes 3% income tax for individuals/ 10% for businesses.  Doesn’t require section 1382 waiver under the ACA. 

Sponsors:  Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler and Rep.Tarik Kahn

Status: Not voted on in 2017-18; waiting to be re-introduced for 2023-4 session.

Advantages to SP in the current context

We finally have a Democratic majority in the state house.  (And Democratic representation in both houses of Congress.)

Obstacles to SP in the current context

Conservative Republican majority in the state senate;

Partnership for America’s Health Future (disingenuous corporate Public Relations campaign.

Where can people find news about Single Payer in your state and/or join a group?

Information:  President at Healthcare 4 All PA.    healthcareforallpa@gmail.com