By MATT LEINGANG, Associated Press Writer Sun Jul 10, 5:58 AM ET

COLUMBUS, Ohio - A push for universal health coverage is being rekindled in some states by the soaring cost of health care and the lack of political support in Washington for federal changes.

Advocates of a single-payer system — where the government would collect taxes and cover everyone, similar to programs in Canada and across Europe — have introduced bills in at least 18 state legislatures. Some are symbolic gestures, but heated debate is taking place in California and Vermont.

In Ohio, doctors, union officials and religious leaders are gathering signatures to get a single-payer health system placed on a ballot next year.

"The level of misery with private insurers is rising, and that's why we're seeing this increased activity," said Larry Levitt, vice president of the California-based Kaiser Family Foundation, which analyzes health care issues. "But whether one state can succeed, I don't know." read more...

_________________________________________

This is what I talking about. Healthcare and Education, not Warfare and Occupation! This is an issue that is relevant to the people. This is an issue that will improve our way of life. Forget terror, and strive for hope!