Matthews
If the Government Can't Deliver Mail, Why Would They Be Able To Sell Insurance?
Submitted by lpin_ed on Thu, 10/15/2009 - 09:29 |By Evan Matthews, a Hoosier Libertarian.
Many people, including President Obama, have expressed their desire for a single-payer federal health care system. The idea of universal coverage is unimpeachable on moral grounds, but it is economically dangerous magical thinking. Health care reform, long overdue in this country, should empower individuals rather than enforce one-size-fits-all legislation.
Government simply does not spend money well. Take the United States Post Office, for example. In 2007 and 2008 the USPS posted a total deficit of about $8 billion. In both years the USPS took in about $75 billion in revenue. Postmaster General John E. Potter estimates that the 2009 deficit will be a record $7 billion.
Smoking Bans DO Have Economic Consequences
Submitted by lpin_ed on Mon, 10/05/2009 - 09:18 |By Evan Matthews, a Hoosier Libertarian.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- Smoking bans are onerous, misguided and dangerous. As Indianapolis lawmakers debate whether the Circle City requires more stringent smoking legislation, they should stop to consider the economic and realistic implications.
The owner of a private establishment, be it bar, bowling alley or barber shop, should be able to determine whether or not smoking is permissible on their property. Proprietors would display a sign on the door, reading either “Smoking” or “Non-Smoking,” both enforced with vigor. Individuals would then be able to make informed and individual choices, free from government coercion.
About three-fourths of the population are non-smokers. Establishments would be foolish to alienate this huge market. As a result, many will enforce their own bans in order to cater to clientele. Government intervention isn't needed to create non-smoking environments in private establishments.
