Yes or No on 17 is the question for November voters

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - The vote “No on 17” committee calls the initiated measure a government mandate that will increase health care costs.

Coalition Chair David Owen says I-M 17 is not about patients it’s about doctors.  He says 17 would raise health care costs by threatening insurance networks that offer quality health care at the best possible value.

He says 94% of South Dakotans are happy with their current health plan.

Owen is the President of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry.             

The “Yes on 17” Committee says many patients are currently forced to use providers in insurance company networks or pay extra.  Rapid City doctor Steve Eckrich says that 17 would allow patients to continue long term relationships and hasn't raised health care costs in other states.