The furnishing of health care as a collateral benefit of one's employment is largely a matter of historical accident rather than logical choice. Early in the development of the organized labor movement in the U.S. medical insurance was advanced as a benefit for employees. Initially, management found this a less expensive alternative than an outright wage increase since it was a contingent rather than absolute expense and could be covered by an insurance plan. Over the years this concept became generally accepted in U.S. employment contracts. Our current economic difficulties, with large numbers of the work force losing their jobs and as a consequence their health insurance demonstrates the illogic of this arrangement. Also, the cost of the insurance makes U.S. companies less competitive in the world market and is a factor in moving business offshore. ...more

March 22, 2009

The economic crisis and practicality have lawmakers and educators in the mood to put the brakes on Florida's class-size amendment for another year. ...more

October 9, 2008

The economic crisis and practicality have lawmakers and educators in the mood to put the brakes on Florida's class-size amendment for another year. ...more

October 8, 2008

When Patrick Kolen and wife April moved to Florida four years ago, they were greeted by three hurricanes in quick succession. ...more

July 5, 2008

Sunshine Law Violation A letter to fire commissioners suggesting how they should vote, who they should vote for and asking them to expedite the selection process seems to me to violate the very concept of the "Government in the Sunshine" laws. ...more

February 15, 2008