Amendment 1, a proposed amendment to the Florida state Constitution, is all about freedom and liberty: the freedom to make your own decisions about your own health care, and the liberty to refuse any government forcing you into its system.

The amendment prevents legislation or rules that would force any individual or employer into any health care system. It authorizes employers and individuals to purchase health care services directly from a provider without penalties and fines. It offers freedom from those things the federal government is trying to impose!

Big government-mandated health insurance creates big government bureaucracy. This hinders the private market, kills jobs, and reduces our individual freedoms. Mandates directly conflict with personal liberty. Government should NEVER force citizens to purchase any product or service the people do not want.

Amendment 1 protects the rights of Floridians from these offenses. It also defends against future state legislation that may force individuals and employers to purchase health insurance, and sets the stage to preclude other, similar big government mandates.

Citizens have the ability to make a difference Nov. 6 by making Amendment 1 part of our state Constitution. I urge people to stand up for personal liberty, and the freedom to protect themselves from big government and its mandates.



Rep. Stephen L. Precourt, R-Orlando, in his fourth and final term in the Florida Legislature, is chairman of the Finance and Tax Committee and is a member of the Rules and Calendar Committee.