On the recordMarch 25, 2010
Madam President, the whole premise, the theory of health care reform is that it is a shared responsibility--employers, employees, American citizens, companies, a shared solution here. The bill already waives any criminal penalties. That is taken out of the bill. No criminal penalties. A person cannot go to jail. That is provided for in the bill that was signed a couple of days ago. The bill also limits collection activities. It is very sensitive to the points made by the Senator from Nevada. It has a good balance of responsibility and accountability. But there must be some consequence of somebody not living up to his or her shared responsibility. It is very sensitive to doing this in the right way. I think it is a good balance. Their amendment goes way too far by eliminating any consequences. I move to table the amendment and ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. The question is on agreeing to the motion. The clerk will call the roll. The assistant legislative clerk called the roll.
