Calif. Grocers Say Assembly Bill 8 Places Unfair Healthcare Burden on Employers
SACRAMENTO -- The California Grocers Association (CGA) said yesterday it opposes Assembly Bill 8 because it fails to address several of the critical components that will make health care reform successful.
According to the regional trade association, the proposal places an unfair burden on employers by failing to include a mandate on individuals to purchase health care; does not achieve universal coverage for all Californians; imposes strict penalties on employers; and, does little to promote healthier behaviors among employees.
“We are encouraged by the Governor’s and Legislature’s commitment to addressing the issues of healthcare access, quality and affordability and are optimistic that a solution which is both effective and equitable can be reached to mutually benefit both employers and employees in this state,” said CGA president and c.e.o. Peter J. Larkin. “CGA urges public policy makers to support shared responsibility and oppose unfair penalties on employers.”
CGA said it supports the principle of shared financial responsibility between California employees, employers, and the state, to fund comprehensive health care reform. Additionally, CGA said it supports healthier behavior and prevention and wellness incentives; financial assistance for low-income individuals; equal tax treatment for individual health care expenses; and market-based reforms which will allow access to reliable and affordable care.
The CGA is a non-profit, statewide trade association that represents approximately 500 retail members operating over 6,000 food stores in California and Nevada, and approximately 200 grocery supplier companies. Retail membership includes chain and independent supermarkets, convenience stores and mass merchandisers.
According to the regional trade association, the proposal places an unfair burden on employers by failing to include a mandate on individuals to purchase health care; does not achieve universal coverage for all Californians; imposes strict penalties on employers; and, does little to promote healthier behaviors among employees.
“We are encouraged by the Governor’s and Legislature’s commitment to addressing the issues of healthcare access, quality and affordability and are optimistic that a solution which is both effective and equitable can be reached to mutually benefit both employers and employees in this state,” said CGA president and c.e.o. Peter J. Larkin. “CGA urges public policy makers to support shared responsibility and oppose unfair penalties on employers.”
CGA said it supports the principle of shared financial responsibility between California employees, employers, and the state, to fund comprehensive health care reform. Additionally, CGA said it supports healthier behavior and prevention and wellness incentives; financial assistance for low-income individuals; equal tax treatment for individual health care expenses; and market-based reforms which will allow access to reliable and affordable care.
The CGA is a non-profit, statewide trade association that represents approximately 500 retail members operating over 6,000 food stores in California and Nevada, and approximately 200 grocery supplier companies. Retail membership includes chain and independent supermarkets, convenience stores and mass merchandisers.