Support the Utah Cares Act for Universal Health Care Coverage

I am writing to express my strong support for the Utah Cares Act, sponsored by Sen. Nate Blouin, and to urge you to support this legislation when it comes before committee. The current health care system forces too many Utahns to make impossible choices between paying rent and seeing a doctor. The Utah Cares Act would address this by expanding the Public Employee Health Program to all Utah residents, eliminating monthly premiums, deductibles, and copays that create barriers to necessary care. This approach recognizes that health care should be a right, not a privilege tied to employment status. The proposal offers a practical funding mechanism through a gross receipts tax on larger businesses, while exempting nonprofits, government entities, and small businesses. This ensures fair distribution of costs while protecting our smallest employers. By separating health insurance from employment, the plan would provide stability for workers who change jobs or face unemployment, removing a significant source of economic anxiety for Utah families. The comprehensive coverage under the Utah Cares Act would include dental care, vision services, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. These are medically necessary services that many current plans inadequately cover, yet they are essential for overall health and productivity. Dr. Joseph Jarvis, who worked on this proposal, has seen firsthand how many patient needs go unmet under the current system while costs continue to rise. With the federal government failing to act on meaningful health care reform, Utah has an opportunity to lead by implementing a state-level solution. The proposed Utah Health Systems Commission would provide oversight and coordination, ensuring the system serves all residents effectively. I urge you to support the Utah Cares Act and vote in favor of this legislation. Utahns deserve a health care system that prioritizes patient needs over profit and provides security for every resident.