Over 250 Individuals packed the First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia for Town Hall on New Health Care Law

Over 250 individuals spent yesterday morning learning about the benefits of the new health care law at a town hall forum in Philadelphia. Speakers included Congressman Joe Sestak, Kathleen Stoll, Deputy Executive Director of Families USA, Cheryl Bettigole, President Elect of the National Physician’s Alliance, John Dodds, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Unemployment Project and Eileen Connelly Executive Director of SEIU Sate Council. Individuals also had the opportunity to get their questions answered.

Theresa Mansell of Childspace CDI shared her story and what how the law will help childcare providers across the state. She shared this story "Joanna LaCorte operates Preschool Plus, a small child care program in Mt. Airy.  Preschool Plus offers health care benefits to its 9 employees; however, the premiums go up every year, making it more and more difficult for Joanna to find funds in the already stretched budget to cover the cost of health benefits.  In fact, as a result, Joanna has been unable to give staff raises for three years.  This story is common with child care providers.  Because of health care reform, Preschool Plus, as a non profit program and centers like it, will be able to take advantage of a tax credit of up to 25% this year and 35% in 2014.  For profit centers could receive up to 35% this year and 50% in 2014.  These tax credits will put money back into the budget and allow small businesses a little more financial flexibility."

Read about the event in today's Philadelphia Inquirer http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20100804_Forum_focuses_on_benefits_of_health_care_reform.html