Rep. Mike Bell (R-Riceville) today presented the “Tennessee Health Freedom Act” in a House subcommittee, which he said "is aimed at protecting the right of an individual to purchase — and the right of doctors to provide — lawful medical services without penalty."
The bill "would also require the state attorney general to take the necessary steps to defend these rights."
Rep. Bell said, “This government takeover of our health care is an unprecedented move by the federal government. Never in the history of our great country has the federal government required each and every citizen to purchase a product from a private company. The ‘Tennessee Health Freedom Act’ will protect citizens from the heavy hand of Washington.”
He said other states have passed similar legislation, and several have joined together and announced they will be filing a lawsuit against the federal government regarding the federal law.
“Ultimately, the bill signed into law by the President is a one-size-fits-all solution to a very complex system,” said Rep. Bell. “I have heard from people all across the state who are supportive of my bill and they are passionate about this issue. They do not want to see the government’s hand in their healthcare.”
An amendment was offered to put the bill in line with the Senate version, which has already passed with an overwhelming majority. In order to give committee members time to read and examine the amendment, the bill was deferred for one week. The committee is expected to vote on the measure next Wednesday.