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The facts are known about expanding Medicaid via Prop No. 2 In Idaho this November.

We know that Prop No. 2 is paid for primarily by taxes already collected by the federal government. We know no new taxes will be necessary to fund this proposition. Gov. Butch Otter, an anti-tax hawk, had his own workgroup study this subject. The workgroup clearly responded that no new taxes were needed to pay for the Medicaid expansion. In other words, we can afford this!

We know good jobs will be created generating significant revenue for our state. About $68.5 million from 14,000 new jobs will be generated. Everybody wants more good jobs. So, support this!

We know access to health services will be increased especially in rural areas where hospitals are closing or struggling to remain open. Think about a woman having to travel 100 miles to deliver her baby! If you think its OK to have to drive a very pregnant wife through long mountainous roads to get to a hospital because yours “doesn’t deliver” or is closed down, I would like to talk to you!

The only decision when considering a yes vote on Prop No. 2 is what is the right thing to do? Some people buy into the idea of “tough love.” We’ve all heard this. “They” should work more. Or,”they” should have tried harder. Or, its their own fault “they” need health care or became ill. First of all, “they” are real people and are working. Secondly, all of those potential “tough love” excuses have been thoroughly debunked. How many hours can one work performing a low wage job and still not be able to pay for health care? A lot. We live in a competitive system. Not everyone is going to be a “winner” no matter how hard they try. Anyone can become seriously ill regardless of “lifestyle.”

The obvious truth is, vote yes on Prop No. 2 because it’s the right thing to do!

DOUG RADFORD

Sandpoint