Local Residents, Politicians React to Supreme Court Decision

Update (4 p.m.)—The U.S. Supreme Court  (ACA) in a 5-4 decision Thursday. 

Here's a look at what local residents said on Facebook, and politicians from around Anne Arundel and around the state of Maryland have to say about the court's decision.

Edgewater, Davidsonville Residents: 

The majority of those who commented on Patch's Facebook page following the Supreme Court's ruling were frustrated and against the justices' decision. And while some argued that the decision will turn the U.S. into a socialist nation, most just expressed their dissatisfaction.

Phrases like "Welcome to Russia folks!" and "We are screwed," filled the comments section. One commenter wrote "I think it sucks ... more money I need to fork over for the democratic 'victims.'

However, some residents felt the law is flawed, but good. 

"It's far from perfect, but it's a step in the right direction, (from someone who has never had the misfortune of being without health insurace for close to half a century)," said Lila Perilloux. 

Shelly Hix admitted she doesn't know everything about the law, but said she supports a government program that helps working people find affordable health care.

"This act is so complicated I believe no one truly understand how it will work unless you have real all 10,000 pages," Hix said on Patch's Facebook page. "If you work for a living and cannot afford the outrageous insurance premiums you have to pay to be healthy then the government should provide subsidies. I do not believe in free medical..." 

A user with the name Softeye McGillicutty said, "If we didn't require treatment regardless of coverage this wouldn't be necessary. But if we didn't require treatment regardless of coverege we'd be a pretty crappy version of America. You can't have it both ways."

Those who supported the ruling expressed excitement that the debate over the ACA's constitutionality was finally over. 

"I'm so happy for America. It's about time we startedcatching up with the rest of the modern indsutrialized world," Lisa Brannigan Rodvien said.

Anne Arundel County Council:

Councilman Jerry Walker (R-7th District) told Patch via text, “The ruling by SCOTUS today points to the importance of the upcoming election. We need a Romney administration that will support a Congressional repeal of Obamacare mandate/tax." 

Councilman Dick Ladd (R-5h District) told Patch via email, "Sounds like a major increase in government spending, size and taxes. It's a worrisome impact on private job growth and maintenance, which puts pressure on for more government jobs; good for those who do not pay taxes and or get tax refunds; very unnerving for those who pay taxes..."

Maryland State Delegates:

Speaker Michael Busch (D-District 30) was unavailable for comment. His office said he is out of state on vacation.

Maryland State Senators:

U.S. Representatives:

Rep. John Sarbanes (D-3rd District) released a state Thursday afternoon that read, "All Americans deserve access to affordable, high-quality health care. The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the ACA means we can continue implementing reforms that put patients and their doctors back in charge of health care decisions."

"The health reform law is reining in insurance industry abuses and enhancing benefits. Insurance companies are now prohibited from dropping patients when they get sick, placing lifetime limits on the amount of coverage a patient may receive, and discriminating against children with pre-existing conditions," Sarbanes said in the release. "Insurance companies are also required to invest a reasonable amount of the premiums they collect in better health services and more access to care – not sink it in slick advertising and excessive executive pay.

U.S. Senators:

Sen. Ben Cardin (D) wrote in a press release that the court's decision was "the best possible decision for the American people, because everyone now will have access to affordable, quality care and will be protected against the abusive practices of insurance companies.

“I thank the justices for setting aside the politics surrounding this debate and actually following precedent and the law."

Governor:

Gov. Martin O’Malley and Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown released a joint statement, which read in part:

"In upholding the Affordable Care Act, the U.S. Supreme Court chose to protect the lives of millions of Marylanders and millions of Americans. American businesses will be more competitive in the global economy with lower health care costs and a healthier workforce. Parents will be able to keep their children on their health care plans until age 26. Seniors will avoid the Medicare Donut Hole. And by 2014, no American will be denied health care coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

“Today’s decision gives considerable momentum to our health care reform efforts here in Maryland. What it does not – and indeed must not – do, is give us license to take our eye off the ball or slow our progress. 

“We remain as committed as ever to moving forward on behalf of our families. We must move forward, not back.”

What do you think about the Affordable Care Act being upheld by the Supreme Court? Tell us in the comments.