A federal judge in Florida says the federal health care reform law approved by Congress last spring is unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson on Monday ruled that lawmakers exceeded their authority to regulate commerce, with a provision in the law that requires everyone over the age of 18 to purchase health insurance.
Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen praised the decision, saying it confirms arguments against the law opponents have been making about the mandate and severability issues.
Van Hollen says the judge also made a point to mention that the challenge is not about health care, but about the law and our federalist system.
The ruling is expected to be appealed by the federal government. Van Hollen says Wisconsin will play an active role in the case and defending the decision on appeal. Wisconsin was only recently allowed to join the lawsuit brought by 25 other states.