The state of California has moved one step forward in the process of reforming the state healthcare system. The current plan just passed in California’s State Assembly 46-31. Every vote in favor of the plan came from the Democrats of the Assembly. The plan is very similar to the Democratic Presidential Candidates. The funding requires $14.5 billion to support a universal healthcare system for California health insurance. The funds will be generated from tax increases on cigarettes, hospitals and businesses. The success of this program will lead to a national healthcare reform, but the opposition will surely fight this battle to the very end. 

        Tobacco companies spent more than $60 million to defeat a tax on cigarettes in the past year. Private healthcare providers will surely oppose the proposals guidelines. The reform requires all health insurance companies to supply individuals with health insurance no matter what their previous health conditions are. Health insurance providers argue that this will significantly increase premiums for their current customers. Republicans also disagree with the healthcare reform at the state’s current financial situation. Republicans state that California is currently in a financial crisis and should not take on any additional financial burdens. 

        Although many powerful entities oppose the healthcare reform, many business and citizens strongly support all aspects of the proposal. The strength of the proposal with the Californian’s will come under examination when they are required on the tax increase. Most middle and lower class citizens are the core of the cigarette smoking community and will be affected the most by these tax increases. Californians will ultimately have to decide if health insurance is more important then their hard earned dollars.