I am a resident of New Jersey, and like many others, I am faced with an unwelcome choice: opt for health insurance with high premiums and deductibles or face penalties. As someone who relies on online health providers for care, I find the current system deeply flawed.

Health insurance is meant to provide a safety net, but for some of us, traditional methods are not the optimal choice. Not only are the fees high, but the penalties for those who choose other paths are crippling, limiting our freedom to make personal health decisions that best suit our needs.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in 2020, the average annual health insurance premium for single coverage was $7,470, and $21,342 for family coverage. For individuals like me, who find alternate methods of healthcare more efficient and cost-friendly, these premiums are unrealistically high. Yet, as per the New Jersey state law, we risk paying a penalty for not purchasing health insurance.

Healthcare in the United States is centered around the principle of freedom, allowing citizens to choose the best options for their health and wellbeing. This current system of penalties is contrary to this principle.

It’s time for New Jersey to revise its current health insurance policies to create provisions for its residents who opt for online health providers. We, the residents of New Jersey, seek your support to eliminate penalties imposed on our healthcare choices.

Please sign this petition and help us ensure better healthcare that respects our freedom and personal choices.