ObamaCare continues to make waves in its latest string of legislative challenges. The latest challenge to the health law, a Lynchburg, Virginia case brought by Liberty University and five individuals, alleged Congress could not force Americans to purchase health insurance. Judge Norman Moon dismissed the case, finding that the “challenged provisions are well within Congress’ authority under the Commerce Clause” of the Constitution. The plaintiffs in the matter plan to appeal.
The Virginia ruling proves one thing: The lower courts’ decisions show no consensus about the constitutionality of the health law. In October, a Michigan federal judge dismissed a Christian law center’s argument and upheld ObamaCare’s constitutionality. A pair of Florida lawsuits, one filed by 20 U.S. states and one filed by a Virginia attorney, could fare better. In October, a Pensacola judge found that the government’s expansion of power was without precedent—a decision that allowed the states’ challenge to go forward. The judge is scheduled to hear further argument on the matter later today.
So what’s next for ObamaCare—a final decision from the U.S. Supreme Court? That might be what it takes to finally lay this controversial issue to rest. Then, individuals and small businesses can make concrete preparations for the myriad changes ahead.
