Sen. Carper response....

[CBR]

I received a response to my contact with Sen. Carper regarding the support for the public option. I am excerpting key segments.

"I am not opposed to a public plan in health care reform - but before my colleagues and I make a decision on it, we do need to know the details of the public plan we're considering."

"For example, a number of insurance market reforms that are being considered will ensure that no person is denied coverage based on pre-existing conditions. Moreover, people with serious diseases will not see the astronomical rates that they oftentimes face when they try to get coverage. On the government side, Medicaid will be expanded to cover more individuals and families. Tax credits will be given to those people who may not qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, but still find it difficult to pay for health insurance.

These reforms are meaningful and represent a significant shift in our health care system. However, I do think that if these reforms are not enough to keep the insurance companies honest, and they may not be, then there should be an alternative for consumers."

"but I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to reach a consensus on the public plan option. The goal, which is to keep the insurance companies honest, is not negotiable. However, the method by which we achieve that goal is negotiable."

"Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), released a white paper titled "Call to Action: Health Reform 2009". While the document is not an inclusive list of reform proposals, it is an excellent blueprint."

Just an FYI... sounds like trigger support to me.