File Under "Too Pissed Off to Post"

From the Boston Globe:

Mass. lawmakers OK mandatory health bill

Lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a bill Tuesday that would make Massachusetts the first state to require that all its citizens have some form of health insurance.

[snip]

If all goes as planned, poor people will be offered free or heavily subsidized coverage; those who can afford insurance but refuse to get it will face increasing tax penalties until they obtain coverage; and those already insured will see a modest drop in their premiums.

[snip]

Individuals deemed able but unwilling to purchase health care could face fines of more than $1,000 a year by the state if they don't get insurance.

Did you catch that?

Individuals deemed able but unwilling to purchase health care could face fines of more than $1,000 a year by the state if they don't get insurance.

Once more now, for the visually impaired.

Individuals deemed able but unwilling to purchase health care could face fines of more than $1,000 a year by the state if they don't get insurance.

The vote tally on this flaming piece of excrement:

The House approved the bill on a 154-2 vote. The Senate endorsed it 37-0.

Welcome to Massachusetts - the transformation to a socialist state is now officially complete. Please check your freedom and individual liberty at the door.

UPDATE: Quote of the Day comes to us courtesy of the Harvard Crimson:

The plan "will not be instantly positive for everyone," said Professor of Health Policy and Management Robert J. Blendon, referring to the fines levied by the legislation.

That's putting it gently.