How did I not hear about this before?
If you're a state employee in Alabama, you have to pay more for insurance because you're obese. The extra $25-a-month charge also applies to smokers.
In its defense, Alabama has the second highest obesity rate in the country, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Employees will be charged as an incentive to change their eatin' ways, and to lose weight.
Still, why pick one or two conditions, but not for others?
Bloggers have been going crazy over this one, with many saying the new insurance fee, fat Alabama state employees will start to pay in 2011, is discrimination.
It may seem like they're picking on fat people, but I'm sure this also has to do with finances.
With most states strapped for cash, I'm sure this measure is about health, but also about helping pay for or curb health insurance costs.
I'm fat, but relatively healthy. I don't have high blood pressure, diabetes or other obesity-related health conditions.
Would I still have to pay the extra $25 each month? If so, why?
From what I read, the system is based on BMI - body mass index. Those who fall in the obese category, with a BMI of 29 or more. You're just chubby if your BMI is 20.
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