Repealing Certificate of Need Laws: The Impact on Healthcare Access and Hospital Closures Revealed

Franklin, Tennessee – A recent opinion piece by Wendy Long argues against the repeal of Certificate of Need (CON) laws in Tennessee, claiming that it would lead to decreased access to healthcare. However, evidence suggests that repealing CON laws can actually increase accessibility. Under CON laws, healthcare facilities face barriers to opening or expanding, hindering competition and limiting options for patients. Long and other CON law proponents assert that hospitals will close without the protection of CON laws, as new facilities could attract privately insured patients and leave existing hospitals with only uninsured or under-insured … Read more

Florida County Considers Repealing Gun Sale Waiting Period and Background Check Requirements, Prompting Concerns of A Potential Surge in Immediate Gun Violence

DELAND, Fla. – The Volusia County Council in Florida unanimously voted to move forward with a plan to repeal local gun laws that require a three-day waiting period and background check for private gun sales. The ordinance will undergo further voting before it is officially repealed. The law currently applies to private sellers at gun shows held at the Volusia County Fairgrounds. The proposal to lift these restrictions was put forth by District 3 Councilman Danny Robins and supported by other council members who believe that these rules infringe upon Second Amendment rights. They argue … Read more