Bill Would Pay for Health Coverage for Some National Guardsmen

[The Straight Story]

Bill Would Pay for Health Coverage for Some National Guardsmen

The National Guard says as many as 40 percent of its soldiers and airmen do not have health care coverage before they report for active service or after they return.

California has more than 6,000 soldiers and airmen on active duty. They do have health insurance. Pending legislation would provide a $4,000 state tax credit to cover premiums for them when they are not on active duty.

"You know we have a force that we're trying to keep ready and able at all times, not only to respond to emergencies outside the United States, but certainly issues that arise in California, and we're not able to do that as effectively without a good health care program," said Lt. Col. John Haramalis.

Many of the uninsured soldiers and airmen are younger members whose jobs don't offer coverage.

http://www.kxtv10.com/storyfull1.asp?id=11709