Columbia, SC — A few news items provide some insight into the priorities of our governor and Legislature:

Gov. Nikki Haley and her appointed director of the Department of Health and Human Resources oppose the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, arguing that it won’t solve the state’s health problems. (Health insurance does not promise a cure, but it does pay for treatment of health problems.)

Legislators rejected a solar energy plan that could reduce the size of the power bill at a senior citizens’ home, citing their discomfort with the plan’s effect on the utility companies and their customers. (Is it surprising that the only vocal opponents of this plan were spokesmen for the utility companies?)

The Senate Judiciary Committee approved a bill allowing guns in bars and restaurants, while a highly respected Columbia pediatrician lamented a bill in the Legislature that would prohibit health care providers from discussing firearms with patients. (It’s OK to carry guns; just don’t talk about them.)

Barbara Gatlin

Columbia