As this year comes to a close, we need to make sure that our representatives in Congress have one item at the top of their list of resolutions – to pass a health care reform bill that makes health care more affordable and accessible while at the same time ensures that all employers pay their fair share.

The House of Representatives and the Senate have each passed a health care bill.  The two bills are very different.  The House bill includes important features that will assure affordability and coverage for all, including making sure that employers contribute to coverage for their workers.  The Senate bill, on the other hand, will place a tax on health care plans that will eventually force employers to cut benefits and pass on the cost of care to workers and their families.

Now the House and the Senate need to agree on a single bill.  Make sure your member of Congress sticks by the House bill.  Write your letter today.

A recent column in the New York Times by Bob Herbert explains exactly how this so-called Cadillac tax will result in benefit cuts and tax increases for middle-class Americans.  Herbert also exposes the flawed thinking behind the tax:

The rest of the $150 billion, more than 82 percent of it, will come from the income taxes paid by workers who have been given pay raises by employers who will have voluntarily handed over the money they saved by offering their employees less valuable health insurance plans.

Really?  Herbert doesn't buy it, and neither does CWA President Larry Cohen.  "In the real world, companies cut costs and they pocket the money. Executives tell the shareholders: 'Hey, higher profits without any revenue growth. Great!' "

President Cohen has been working tirelessly to get the truth out about this tax.  Please back him up by writing your member of Congress today.

In Unity,

Beth Allen
Online Mobilization Coordinator
CWA e-Activist Network