Current Alabama insurance issues as of February 2010

Alabama insurance affordability and availability has been shaped by historical,political and social issues stemming from Alabama's culture

There are some historical factors that shape health insurance legislation in Alabama. It's a small, conservative Southern state with a large low-income minority population. It also is the number one state in the country in obesity rates. It's a conservative state, a description that applies to both political parties and it's anti-big government.

Given one of the recent policies recently implemented by the state of Alabama, the sentiment may seem justified. Alabama will monitor the weight of its employess and impose a financial penalty upon those whose BMI is considered to be unhealthy. You have to wonder how compassionate this state is to the little guy. To be fair, Governor Bob Riley has shown in the past that he is capable of taking off the partisan hat and actually looking out for little guys. One notable proposal of his, is the Small Business Health Insurance Premium Deduction Enhancement Act, designed to provide tax breaks to small businesses and individuals who purchase their own insurance. Given all of Alabama's recent controversy, we can hope that this represents steps towards progress that will make this state more competitive.

Click here for Alabama insurance options for those without employer-sponsored coverage

Do you have a different opinion of health coverage in this state?

Health coverage policies and laws obviously can change. If your experience with getting health coverage is different than what is written above, or if you just want to share your experiences with health coverage, please feel free.