Paying for Comprehensive Student Support: Healthcare, Housing, and Education

Recently, there has been a lot of debate revolving around the idea of providing free college healthcare and housing for everyone. While some might attribute this to a troll question, the underlying issues of accessibility in these areas are very real and require serious consideration.

Healthcare: Addressing Pre-Existing Conditions and Coverage

Healthcare is a critical issue that has been on the radar for many, including myself. As a physician, I wholeheartedly supported the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which has been long overdue to cover all Americans, irrespective of their pre-existing conditions. The absurdity of an insurance company denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions was outcried from many quarters. The ACA has helped independents finally afford a plan, and it has been a great boon to the middle class, although criticized by some conservative voices in Congress.

Housing: Market Restrictions and Affordability

Housing affordability is a major issue, particularly in high-cost areas. I believe there is a need to address this, but I am skeptical of government intervention further complicating the market. I have seen firsthand how state policies can impact personal endeavors. For instance, as a landlord, I owned apartments as a part of my retirement plan. I diligently maintained my properties and tenants, but California Governor Newsom's policies made it nearly impossible for me to invest in property. The myriad rent and eviction restrictions have made owning apartments in California prohibitively expensive for anyone but multimillionaires. This has not only affected my ability to run a business but also resulted in me sacrificing improvements that would benefit current and future tenants.

College Education: Beyond High Costs and Debt

Education is another critical issue. College students in the United States are heavily burdened with student debt, which can delay significant life milestones such as marriage, children, and purchasing a home. State colleges often struggle with overcrowding, limiting students' access to necessary courses for their majors and extending their time to graduation. The steep rise in the cost of college over the past decade is undeniably concerning, and the current system of high loan interest rates is unjust. Increasing student loan interest rates from day one of obtaining a degree is indeed asinine and unfair to prospective graduates.

Proposed Solutions

To address these issues, some practical solutions can be considered. First, making community college free would be a tremendous help, as it reduces the financial burden on students at the outset of their higher education journey. Secondly, implementing zero percentage interest rates for student loans up to a maximum amount each year would alleviate the pressure on graduates. Once the student has graduated and is employed, their earnings should be garnished to repay the loan in a manner that is reasonable and manageable.

In conclusion, while the idea of providing free college healthcare and housing for everyone may be contentious, addressing the underlying issues of pre-existing condition coverage, housing affordability, and high college costs is crucial. By implementing more effective and market-driven solutions, we can ensure that everyone has equal access to healthcare, housing, and education, paving the way for a more equitable future.