Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

Be prepared! This will be the first step towards gov't sponsored universal health coverage.

Not only should the government subsidize COBRA, but the law should also be changed to extend the length of time COBRA is available to those whose jobs are eliminated after age 55. It is very difficult to find another job in this economy and at older ages and almost impossible to afford individual coverage...

I find it interesting that insurance is too expensive for individuals to pay, while the push from the other direction has been to have employer required (paid) insurance mandates.

Yes, I would rather we help the laid off worker where it counts than give the money to the banks!!!Though I think 18 mos is bit long and would agree to 12 mo.

And where would that money come from? More taxes -- either on consumers or employers?

While we strongly simpathize with the plight of the unemployed, subsidizing COBRA would be a mistake. The effect could significantly drive up claims costs to the employer's plan. Former employees with health problems would find it much easier to stay on COBRA, incurring claims for 18-36 months that affect...

I agree that COBRA payments create "sticker shock" for most applicants. In addition, only those usable to qualify for another type of coverage take the COBRA benefit. My question is IF the benefit is subsidized where will the money come from? These are so many "needs" but we cannot fund them all. Better...

Where is the government going to get the money????

Unbelievable. Thank you for the insightful comment. Just one of the many, many reasons health care reform can't happen fast enough.

Wow, quite a debate we have going here! Thanks to all for your valid and thoughtful responses. We'll be featuring some of them in an upcoming issue of the magazine. Also, we're planning an upcoming feature on the proposals, and will follow the issue as it travels around Capitol Hill. Thanks for reading,...