Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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OverviewIn this Sunday Edition: outing boxcar bills. We'll take a closer look at the practice of creating empty bills and adding the language later. Plus, Utah's health insurance exchange. We'll explain how it works and why it is considered a pioneer in state-run health care reform. And finally, just walk. Doug Wright offers his opinion on why taking a few extra steps every day could do us all some good.
Segment 1
The 2013 Legislative session gets underway in a few weeks and a resolution could end the practice of what's known as "boxcar bills."
That's when legislators open an empty bill file at the beginning of the session, which they can then introduce text into later — potentially at the last minute. Critics argue it's not transparent or in the public interest. We'll discuss the issue with Sen. Aaron Osmond and political science professor Tim Chambless.
Segment 2
Utah is one of four GOP-led states that has been given the go-ahead by the federal government to run its own health insurance exchange.
But even before now, Utah has been a pioneer in state-run health care reform. A program now called "Avenue H" is a health insurance exchange for small businesses. But to make it compliant with federal law, Utah has to figure out how to offer individual insurance plans.
Richard Piatt discussed all of that with Celia Nash, an insurance broker with the most groups on Avenue H. and Judi Hillman, director of the Utah Health Policy Project.
Segment 3
KSL is dedicating the year 2013 to giving you and your family reliable information you can use to feel your best. If you've ever met KSL's Doug Wright, you may have noticed a small plastic box on his belt and wondered, "what is that?" That little device is key to helping him maintain his fitness with every step he takes. He explains.
