Karen Harned, executive director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Legal Center, issued the following statement in response to the decision by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals finding the individual mandate in the health care law unconstitutional:
“Small-business owners across the country have been vindicated by the 11th Circuit’s ruling that the individual mandate in the health-care law is unconstitutional. The Court reaffirmed what small businesses already knew – there are limits to Congress’ power. And the individual mandate, which compels every American to buy health insurance or pay a fine, is a bridge too far.
“We were hopeful that the Court would take the extra step and find, not only, that the individual mandate is unconstitutional, but that it cannot be severed from the law. Still, today’s ruling is a true victory for all Americans because it respects the constitutional limits of Congress’ power over all Americans.
“It will be incumbent on the Supreme Court to determine the ultimate future of the health care law. We look forward to the opportunity to present our case to the Court.”
NFIB is the only business organization in the lawsuit brought by 26 states against the health care law.
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NFIB is the nation’s leading small business association, with offices in Washington, D.C., and all 50 state capitals. Founded in 1943 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, NFIB gives small and independent business owners a voice in shaping the public policy issues that affect their business. NFIB’s powerful network of grassroots activists send their views directly to state and federal lawmakers through our unique member-only ballot, thus playing a critical role in supporting America’s free enterprise system. NFIB’s mission is to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses. More information is available online at www.NFIB.com/newsroom.
