45th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2002

REQUESTING THAT A STUDY BE CONDUCTED TO DETERMINE THE BENEFITS OF TAX INCENTIVES FOR THE PURCHASE OF HEALTH CARE INSURANCE.

WHEREAS, the cost of health care continues to rise as medical care inflation outpaces the national consumer price index; and

WHEREAS, despite managed care initiatives, health insurance premiums have increased over the last few years and are expected to increase by over eleven percent in the coming years; and

WHEREAS, in 1998 overall health care expenditures were thirteen and five-tenths percent of the United States gross domestic product compared to twelve and two-tenths percent in 1990; and

WHEREAS, medical progress and technological innovation will continue to increase health care expenditures; and

WHEREAS, the continuing rise of health care expenditures makes it difficult for employers and employees, as well as the unemployed, to purchase health care insurance; and

WHEREAS, the self-employed and those working for small businesses are disproportionately represented among the nation's uninsured;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the New Mexico health policy commission be requested to conduct a study of tax incentives in the form of tax deductions, tax refunds or other tax relief to determine what tax reform initiatives may be offered that would provide an incentive for employers, employees and others to purchase health insurance coverage; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the New Mexico health policy commission report its findings and recommendations to an appropriate interim committee by November 1, 2002; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico health policy commission.