February 1, 2007

Dear Residents of New Jersey:

Thank you for your interest in my proposal to reform health care in New Jersey. My hope for this website is to provide you with background on this important issue, create an opportunity for you to provide feedback, and allow you to monitor the progress of this effort.

Much of my work as a legislator has been dedicated to health care reform, taking considerable time to understand the human and economic impact of new policies. Health care issues are vast and complex. There is no simple solution, but I remain committed to finding answers to the resounding call for change. Effective and sustainable reform must be bold to impact the most concerning issues; the uninsured and affordability. This fundamental principle is required fiscally and demanded morally.

During the past summer, leading health care experts with particular experience in New Jersey joined in a multifaceted effort to examine this issue and develop the progressive solutions that form the pillars of my plan. David Knowlton, President and CEO of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute, partnered with me as Chairman of this working group. Our mission was purposeful and focused: Cover the uninsured with an affordable and portable product.

This is the beginning of what will continue to be a deliberate and involved process. The framework has been established and the details are now being refined. Your input at this stage is particularly important. Be sure to submit your contact information so I may continue to update you and continue our dialogue.

I look forward to working together to create lasting change.

With best wishes,

Joe Vitale
Senator, District 19