Pearce: ‘A giant step into socialism’

Sen. Monty Pearce, R-New Plymouth, told the Senate State Affairs Committee this morning, “We assert that states have rights and we assert that they have been established.” He called the national health care reform law enacted by Congress “probably the worst bill in American history.” He said, “At a time when we’re in serious financial troubles we can’t afford … our citizens are being forced to buy health care or else be fined.” Said Pearce, “This bill is about government control of people. It’s a giant step into socialism.”

Before the hearing began, committee Chairman Curtis McKenzie, R-Nampa, said it was his intention to complete the hearing today and have the panel vote on the nullification bill, HB 117. After a group of co-sponsors including Pearce made comments to the committee, McKenzie is now hearing public testimony, with those testifying limited to 3 minutes apiece. Among them so far: Idaho County Commissioner Jim Chmelik, who said, “This health care bill is an economic nightmare and a disaster waiting to happen.”