Overview
Governor Parnell has consistently expressed concern over the health care legislation Congress recently passed. Prior to the passage of this legislation Governor Parnell directed the Attorney General and Department of Law to conduct a legal review of the evolving legislation. The Department of Law’s findings have validated Governor Parnell’s concern over the constitutionality of this legislation.
Department of Law’s recommendation and review proved so compelling that Alaska will join other states in Florida’s legal action against the federal government (see Department of Law’s legal review).
Alaska will specifically address the direct conflict between the Commerce Clause in the US Constitution and the individual mandate requirement in this legislation With the enactment of health care legislation, the federal government has reached well beyond the scope of its authority – into the lives and freedom of Alaskans.
Governor Parnell’s chief concern in challenging federal health care legislation is Alaskans’ freedom. The federal government should not and cannot require citizens to purchase any service or goods with the threat of consequence. This health care legislation impermissibly expands federal authority to the detriment of our citizens.
Press Coverage
April 21, 2010 - Alaska Joins Health Care Challenge (Fox News)
- April 21, 2010 - Alaska to join health care fight (Juneau Empire)
- April 21, 2010 - Alaska joins states' suit against federal health care overhaul (Anchorage Daily News)
- April 21, 2010 - Governor: Alaska to fight federal health care law (Fairbanks Daily News Miner)