Healthcare Mandate Still Facing Challenges

Just over a year ago, President Obama signed his healthcare reform bill into law. Since then, the constitutionality of a provision within the bill requiring the purchase of health insurance has been heavily debated. According to the healthcare blog on The Hill, there continues to be opposition to, and skepticism about, the mandate. At present, the legal challenge to the healthcare mandate is making its way through the court system, and is on track for a hearing in the U.S. Supreme Court. It's possible the Supreme Court could rule on the issue before the 2012 election, which could have a significant effect on Obama's campaign for reelection.

What do you think? Does the federal government have the right to require the purchase of health insurance? Comments and opinions are always welcome!