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Kansas Lawmakers Propose Amendment To Block Federal Health Overhaul

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kcur/local-kcur-867759.mp3

Topeka, KS – Three Republican lawmakers in Kansas are proposing a constitutional amendment they say would protect patients' rights to consult with their own doctors on health care decisions.

State Sen. Mary Pilcher Cook and House members Peggy Mast and Brenda Landwehr held news conferences yesterday to announce what they call the "Health Care Freedom Amendment."

If approved by two-thirds of each legislative chamber, the measure would go on a future Kansas ballot. Voters would decide whether to include in the Kansas Constitution a right for residents to provide for their own health care.

The lawmakers say it's a response to health care reforms being considered in Congress and prevents a federal mandate being placed on states.

As the Kansas News Service managing editor, I help our statewide team of reporters find the important issues and breaking news that impact people statewide. We refine our daily stories to illustrate the issues and events that affect the health, well-being and economic stability of the people of Kansas. Email me at skoranda@kcur.org.
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