Which Way, L.A.?
Trying to Fix Medical Care and California's Tax System
A proposed new tax system might get rid of California's annual budget crisis, but what would it mean for the middle class? Also, dangerous weather and commuting by bicycle. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, it's conventional wisdom that healthcare reform is in trouble, but major players are on board. Why did the AMA turn around? Is the Obama White House smarter than it gets credit for?
By Warren Olney • • 53m ListenA blue ribbon task force named by the Governor and the legislature was asked to end California's constant budget crises by fixing the tax system. It's come up with a proposal that offends almost everybody except millionaires. Also, dangerous weather and commuting by bicycle. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, it's conventional wisdom that healthcare reform is in trouble. But major players are on board. After 60 years of opposition, why did the American Medical Association turn around? Is the Obama White House smarter than it gets credit for?
In this episode
4 storiesHealthcare Reform: Is the President Doing It Right…or Not?
Since President Harry Truman introduced the idea 60 years ago, the American Medical Association has opposed every effort at a government overhaul of the healthcare system. This year, the AMA is helping to run TV ads favoring healthcare reform, along with Big Pharma , Families USA and the Service Employees International Union.
Read the story28 minSanta Anas Could Inflame Station Fire
The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches for both Northern and Southern California. Governor Schwarzenegger has ordered state agencies to prepare for the worst. Mark Jackson is meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service's Los Angeles Office.
Read the story3 minWill the State Tax System Be Reformed?
The sales tax in California may be the nation's highest, but 53% of state revenues come from the income tax. That creates problems, because incomes rise and fall with the stock market and the economy, creating the ups and downs that defy planning and lead to continuing budget crises.
Read the story13 minCan LA Cyclists Be Counted?
Recently, the City of Los Angeles has failed to count bicycles during morning and evening commuting hours as required by the LA Bike Master Plan . But tomorrow, a count is finally scheduled to get under way. Dorothy Le is Director of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition.
Read the story5 min
