Here is some stuff in the news today!
When the next phase of Obamacare goes into effect, about 6.4 million Americans will be able to purchase insurance for less than $100 each month. Which is definitely not as good as socialized healthcare, especially for people who can't even afford $100 a month, but is better than having done nothing. Susie hopes that there is an option for people to pay what they're already paying for a better plan.
In related news, Walgreens is pushing its employees into a private health exchange. Which might be terrible for them? Or not? Also: Walgreens has partnered with Blue Cross to promote Obamacare, and will be distributing brochures that "guide patients through basic questions about the Affordable Care Act—what the law does, when it takes effect, and who is eligible for benefits. Details are provided in simple, concise language." So pick one up at Walgreens! Or visit the website.
[Content Note: Guns] Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz has written an open letter asking gun owners to keep their guns out of Starbucks: "For these reasons, today we are respectfully requesting that customers no longer bring firearms into our stores or outdoor seating areas—even in states where 'open carry' is permitted—unless they are authorized law enforcement personnel." Amazing.
[CN: Guns] In related news, the American Journal of Medicine reports that a study has found that countries with high gun ownership are less safe than countries with low gun ownership, contrary to the assertion of gun advocates that gun ownership makes people more safe. "On the contrary, the US, with the most guns per head in the world, has the highest rate of deaths from firearms, while Japan, which has the lowest rate of gun ownership, has the least."
The Department of Labor announced yesterday that "it will extend minimum wage and overtime protections to home care workers, the majority of whom are women and people of color. Almost two million home care workers—such as home health aides, personal care aides, and certified nursing assistants—will now be covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act when the regulations go into effect on January 1, 2015." Awesome.
[CN: Illustrated gore in some images] Check out Jody Steel's leg drawings! They are neat!
Finally: I love Jeff Bridges. That is all.
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