Hot on HuffPost Healthy Living:

 

Your Turn: Do you agree with the 'Obesity Fee?'

Posted on Aug 27th 2008 10:39PM by Martha Edwards
Filed Under: Your Turn
Here at That's Fit, we're constantly telling you what we think about things, but sometimes it's nice to know what you think. So from time to time, we'll ask you a question. Don't be afraid to speak up -- we love feedback.

Maggie recently told us about a new fee that Alabama State employees can expect to see in 2010: An obesity fee. That's right, state workers with a BMI of 35 and over will be expected to fork over and extra $25 a month for medical insurance. This comes after a policy that has smokers forking over extra money for medical insurance as well.

On one hand, such a policy reduces costs for those who practice healthy habits and it could reduce obesity rates in the long run. But on the other hand, isn't it a human rights violation to have to disclose your weight to your employer and pay more if they think you're too heavy?

Would you be ok with an Obesity Fee?
Of course. Healthy people shouldn't have to pay for the bad habits of others.62 (39.2%)
Mostly, but it does seem a bit harsh.42 (26.6%)
Maybe, as long as I don't have to pay.3 (1.9%)
No way. This kind of fee is just wrong.41 (25.9%)
I can't decide6 (3.8%)
Other -- tell us in the comments4 (2.5%)

Around the Web

Related Videos

 
 

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

 

Share Your Success Story

Jupiter Images

Have you lost weight and kept it off? We want to know how you did it and what keeps you inspired!