OPINION: Toward a freer market

Most people know someone who seems to never need a doctor. They eat the right things, get regular exercise and generally take care of themselves. Not only do they feel better, they spend less on health care than the couch potatoes that can name every flavor of potato chip but don't know the difference between a treadmill and an elliptical machine.

The problem is that in similar situations, both pay the same for health insurance. That would change in Colorado if House Bill 1012 becomes law.

The bill, co-sponsored by Rep. Amy Stephens, a Republican from Monument, would allow insurance companies to offer discounts to customers who enroll in programs that help lower cholesterol, relieve stress and reduce other behaviors detrimental to their health. The bill passed the state House 63-0 and is now in the Senate.

This bill is a step in the right direction for lowering health care costs because it encourages individuals to take the reins. It removes one of the artificial barriers government has erected because it alows discounts for beneficial behaviors.

One of the criticisms of our health care system is that the free market hasn't worked, so government must take a larger role to bring down prices. In reality, government regulations that attempt to bring equality to providing health care are one of the reasons for higher prices. Legislation such as HB 1012 give people financial incentives to take better care of themselves.