Could Tea Party amendment end Ohio workers comp?

A proposed amendment to Ohio's constitution could eliminate employers' obligation to provide workers compensation coverage for employees, according to a Toledo Blade editorial.

Supporters of Issue 3 on the state's Nov. 8 ballot say it aims to protect individual's health care freedom.

They say it would preserve the right of Ohio residents to choose their doctor and health insurance while keeping government out of Ohioans' personal decisions.

Proponents also say that unless voters approve Issue 3 the government could prohibit citizens from obtaining private medical treatment and force them to disclose private medical information as well as force residents to purchase “costly government-defined health insurance,” according to filings with Ohio's Secretary of State.

Opponents argue that voting no on Issue 3 will make health care more secure for families because they won't be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions, among other benefits.

The Blade says Issue 3 is a Tea Party-supported measure crafted to oppose President Obama's health care reform law.

The Blade's editorial opposing the measure also raises a question.

Could voter approval of Issue 3 allow “employers to evade their health-insurance duties under the workers compensation and COBRA programs?”

It will be interesting to watch this one and see where it goes.