THE GEORGIA HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT reads:

“WE THE CITIZENS OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA BELIEVE THAT ALL PEOPLE SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE DECISIONS ABOUT THEIR HEALTH CARE, AND THUS NO LAW SHALL BE PASSED THAT RESTRICTS A PERSON’S FREEDOM TO CHOOSE A PRIVATE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM OR PRIVATE PLAN OF ANY TYPE. NO LAW SHALL INTERFERE WITH A PERSON’S OR ENTITY’S RIGHT TO PAY DIRECTLY FOR LAWFUL MEDICAL SERVICES, NOR SHALL ANY LAW IMPOSE A PENALTY OR FINE, OF ANY TYPE, FOR CHOOSING TO OBTAIN OR DECLINE HEALTH CARE COVERAGE OR FOR PARTICIPATION IN ANY PARTICULAR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM OR PLAN.”

The announcement reads:

July 24, 2009

Committed to “making Georgia a model state with regard to our vital insurance markets,” Gerry Purcell announced the introduction of the Georgia Healthcare Freedom Act. The measure will protect the freedom of Georgian’s to choose their own health care plans, and protect Georgia from Federal intrusion on a state matter. Purcell is calling for the referendum to be on the Georgia ballot in November, 2010.

Tax incentives for small and medium sized businesses and improved tax deductions for consumers are also top priority. Additionally, awareness and accountability of the Georgia’s premium tax on insurance policies, which is the second highest in the nation, remains at the forefront of issues to be addressed.

As a national healthcare reformer, Purcell advocates greater disclosure and an emphasis on cost reduction as key components of needed healthcare reform. Gerry Purcell is running for Georgia Insurance Commissioner in 2010.

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