Health care reform will bring new changes as early as this fall

SOUTH BEND — Once President Obama signs the bill, new credits and bans will begin. Pamela Smith is among the faces of the health care debate. She has volunteered with the activist group, Indiana Change That Works since November. Smith is among the 32 million Americans who do not have insurance and can't afford to see a doctor. While supporters screamed "Yes We Did," at a rally on the corner of Main Street and Colfax, outside Congressman Joe Donnelly's office, Smith is saying something else. "I would like to thank Congressman Joe Donnelly with all my heart," said Smith. By phone, Congressman Donnelly said he received countless phone calls and messages as well as protests outside his office in the days leading up to his vote. Donnelly told WSBT News, a majority of callers "wanted my support." When asked whether the protests had any effect on his vote, Donnelly said, "it's a democracy." He added," I try to be a representative of the 2nd district and I think those are the issues that are important." As soon as the president signs the bill, sweeping changes will affect everyone's lives. As early as this fall, reform measures will ban lifetime caps and discrimination against sick patients and children with pre-existing conditions. Coverage will also be extended for young adults, up to age 26. "It's something the college students know well, it has become a new trend," said Sean Savage, political science professor at Saint Mary's College. "College students are moving back home with their parents after college for longer periods of time for costs reason." There are a number of credits and bans that will become law by 2014: -Every American will be required to have health coverage by then. -Health plans can't deny any person coverage based on medical history or condition. -Tax credits for small businesses would cover 50 percent of the premiums. The 930 billion dollar price tag is one of many concerns dividing Democrats and Republicans and people locally. "There is so much distrust and cynicism in federal government," said Savage. The "signs of the times" suggest health care is a right, and they are all willing to fight for it. "Everyone wants their voice heard because health care touches everyone's lives," said Donnelly.