New Orleans, LA - April 6, 2010 While much attention has been focused on Attorney General Buddy Caldwell's decision to join the lawsuit challenging new federal health care law, Louisianians should also take note of two important bills under consideration by the state legislature.

Rep. Kirk Talbot and Sen. A.G. Crowe have introduced measures that seek to protect the right of Louisianians to make their own health care and health insurance choices. Specifically, these bills (HB 94 and SB 26) would prohibit any individual or employer from being penalized for not purchasing government-defined health insurance, and protect the right to pay directly for medical care.

These measures are modeled after the American Legislative Exchange Council's (ALEC) Freedom of Choice in Health Care Act. Louisiana is now one of 41 states in which legislation modeled on this act has been or will be introduced.

"There is no doubt that our health care system is in need of reform," said Pelican Institute president Kevin Kane. "But Americans are justifiably concerned that expanding the government's role in health care will lead to further restrictions on their liberty. The bills introduced by Rep. Talbot and Sen. Crowe would preserve important freedoms."

"There are legitimate Constitutional questions about the federal government requiring individuals to purchase a product. Even allowing for a broad interpretation of the Commerce Clause, the individual mandate may cross the line. Further, the current Supreme Court has demonstrated a willingness to protect states from federal overreach. Louisiana legislators now have the opportunity - and responsibility - to defend freedom of choice in health care."

Click here to read more about the Freedom of Choice in Health Care Act