Israeli Americans blast 'unjust' U.S. health care reform bill

funny to see all the Glenn Becks here

this is not about taxes, this is about healthcare...but you are wrong, friend. If I return to the U.S. (which I've done once already), Israel does not ask me to pay twice on taxes. It's an agreement between Israel and the U.S. that allows us dual citizenship without paying taxes twice on the same thing that i'm only receiving once. why should i pay for two healthcare plans, when i only need one? i really fail to see the purpose in this. i might be willing to voluntarily pay into social security, in case i want to move back to the u.s. and collect on that later, but health care? one plan's enough! and in israel, i can quit paying on health care and quit receiving it. it's socialized, but it's not fascist!

flora, you are wrong. It is completely legal to maintain dual US-Israel citizenship, as it is legal to maintain dual citizenship with other countries. If it was not legal, then I would have renounced my US citizenship when I was granted Israeli citizenship. I do care about the US, and you did not understand my post: I would have to vote in a particular city and state, and you have to agree that me voting for the mayor of Chicago, for example, would be ridiculous.

You should have apologized to your fellow Americans for volunteering to "tax" them when, of course, the US doesn't even dream to do such thing. And they are no problem at all to America! You are with your malevolent inventions! Shame on you!!!

the fact that dual citizenships are problematic for most governments should be self-evident. the u.s. is no exception. i was just pointing out the possibility that this "tax" may actually have a dual purpose. but thank you "S", for yet another attempt to misconstrue my comments as a means of maligning me.

All snide comments such as "don't want to pay then give up your US citizenship aside" I have a different question: I thought this bill was supposed to get healthcare for all Americans, including the poorest of the poorest. So, if American citizens living abroad have to pay $750 per year, I assume that American citizens living in America will have to pay at least the same amount. This means that a family of four will be shelling out $3,000 a year (or $250 a month) for healthcare. Doesn't sound like this helps the poor too much to me. Either that or American citizens living abroad will be paying more for health care, that they can't even use, than American citizens living in America who will use it. Either way, this "reform" bill sounds retarded.

israel has nothing to do with u.s. decisions regarding u.s. domestic policy. you should also understand that taxation is usually based on residency and double taxation is inherently unfair.

What kind of non-thinking comment is that? What business does the AACI have with Lesbians, Gays, Transexuals and Bisexuals in the US? They advocate for immigrants to Israel from North America. Please post comments that make some kind of sense in the future. Thank You.

Airborne, I think it is more likely that your Israeli Health System is paid for by American Taxpayer's Dollars rather than the God you think. Perhaps Obama should stop signing your cheques and see who pays for your needs then. Every other group of ex-pats either already pays this tax or will have to - why not Jews?

Steve P-S: "America should send more money to Israel instead, we are your best friend in the Middle east and a sheild against the Arabs." ===================================== The U.S. should be friend with the Arabs, because the Arabs actually pay for weapons purchase with their own money, instead of relying on U.S. taxpayers handouts.

The CBO has said that less than 2% of premiums go to fund medical malpractice cases. Your position has never been supported in fact. It is only supported by political rhetoric.

It's entirely your choice whether or not you avail yourself of medicare. You are perfectly free to return to the United States to use it. Yet once you begin talking about users/nonusers of programs that are paid for with taxes, you beg the question of why should I be forced to pay for wars that I disapprove of with my taxes? why should my taxes be used to fund public schools since my children are grown? why should my taxes be used to subsidize the cattle industry since I'm a vegetarian? See my point?

Over $4B/year, no oversight, direct subsidy of the Israeli defence industries, $500/person. The US taxpayer monies should be invested in the US, to build up Detroit, rather than distort Israel society and policies. Enough is enough. If Israel is a normal country, it should act and be treated like one. Israel has become perverted, and the US Congress needs to address their own country, and this now strange relationship needs to stop delegitimzing Israel.

US financial assistance to Israel is not a gift; Israel works hard for it. Israel defends US interests in the region, and is a forward staging ground for U.S. forces. By granting aid to Israel, the US also helping itself. Keep in mind that most of that aid is required to be spent in the US, so it is subsidizing US industries.

The proposed healthcare "reform" is unjust because it criminalizes lack of healthcare. Obama said his most transparent administration would go through every bill line by line, but they won't even put the healthcare reform bill on the internet and won't read it either. The Dems are trying to perpetrate a fraud on the US. The GAO review of the plan said that only 2% of Americans will use gov't healthcare. IT WILL STILL COST OVER A TRILLION $!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just say hello to MUCH HIGHER TAXES ON ALL TAXPAYERS. Just say NO TO THE DEMS in 2010!!!!!!!!!

Either be Israeli or a U.S. citizen, if you are both then you will have to pay for this just like they have to pay more taxes. They are trying to have their matzah and eat it too.

Why do you think every American should pay for a health plan that Obama himself and Congress will not be using themselves. If the plan isn't good enough for them why do you think it's good enough for the taxpayers?

After reading many comments by a group of idiots and/or anti-semitic idiots (with a few intelligent comments interspersed), I suggest looking at this in a different light. The US should have a "green" tax where every citizen should be taxed for the pollution caused by cars and airplanes. You don't own a car? You don't fly? Well, give up your citizenship, then... If this seems fair to you, then you are obviously a real believer in the fairness of this task. But, if you don't want to pay the "green" tax, then what are you really saying about yourself?

If you keep USA on high standard you be living here, but you choose to live somewhere else, that to me mean you prefer Israel than USA so give it up it does not do justice to your mother!I became american in 1986 give up my Italian citenship because once I decide and I was ask by the goverment to give my alligiance to the Unite State Of American Not to Italy!!so you give the alligiant to Israel so stop been an hypocrite

$750.00 per year only!!! Our Senior Citizens are paying at least $1200.00 +++ per year much more that an American Citizens living abroad. Those Americans living abroad should denounce their citizenship if they are not satisfied with the US regulations.

I think that many of you are under the impression that he American retirees living abroad don't want to pay a $750 "tax." Not true. That $750 would be a bargan. Right now my wife abd I pay $200 a MONTH from our social security checks for Medicare we cannot receive living abroad. We would be happy to pay the $750 instead of the $2400 we are now paying for nothing.

This so-called "tax" could affect all Americans living abroad, not only those living in Israel. As retired American citizens residing in Brussels, Belgium, my wife and I have approximately $200 a month subtracted from our social security checks to pay for Medicare which we cannot use abroad. We have asked Democrats Abroad (Belgium) to oppose this discrimination but have been told informally that the number of American retirees living abroad is too small to be considered.

Airborne: read Article II, Section 2, Clause 2 of the United States Constitution, especially the Treaty Clause, Then read the WHO Constitution Preamble; the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (art 25/1); AND the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (art 12). The United States is signatory to ALL THREE TREATIES.

I notice alot of people here gave some nasty comments about giving up their US Citzenship if they don't want to pay. Well....$750.00 per year is a lot of money for the average israeli these days. Secondly like myself, I got this Gift from my American mother who's ancecesters are one of the first English settlers as well as Cherokee Native American blood. Think twice before throw comments like that, especially you Israeli Yordim who live over there and think you are of higher standards than us Living our lives in Israel

Health Care legislation isn't easy or convenient to read. But wade thru it and see. PO'd American - Your lawyer friend is not an expert on health insurance or he wouldn't have told you that. Medicaid is not the same thing. Lynn - Nothing's perfect. But the alternative is 15 million more uninsured in 5 years and the end of the remains of manufacturing in the US. We can't all be bankers and stock brokers and insurance executives, though I was one of those for nearly 30 years. http://www.docstoc.com/docs/11382446/Baucus-Health-Care-Bill---Full-Text in prose, not legalese.

The United States, along with the entire interntional community, does not recognise Israel's annexation of East Jerusalem. The US Consulate in East Jerusalem is therefore not in Israel, and therfore services Palestinians since theinternational community is advocating for East Jerusalem to become the capital of Palestine. Jews are served by the US Consulate in West Jerusalem on Rehov Agron (at least it used to be) whch the US recognises as being in Israel.

"this (the $750) may also be a way of reducing the number of people who enjoy dual status" (eric) Now I understand what's happening to you: you went on to become, not just anti-Israeli-American (not just anti-Zionist), but also anti-Italian-American, anti-Irish-American...In other words a pure bigot.

Actually Stephen you are wrong. You can CHOOSE not to pay Bituach Leumi. IF you CHOOSE to return to Israel then you will pay a fine and wait 6 months before your health insurance kicks in. So in the end it is your decision to pay or not to pay. Get Lost, Bituach Leumi

One you say QUOTE US citizenship is more than just a convenience, though it appears that many US Jews use it as such.END QUOTE May I be so bold to ask if you checked the numbers of exactly what percentace of those US citizens living abroad are Jewish? May I ask why the Counslet in Jerusalem serves only US-Palestinians? What about the Arab Americans living in the other 22 Arab countries? Will this law not effect them as well?

You say QUOTE The US taxpayer already subsidizes each Israeli citizen to the tune of $500,END QUOTE Now if I am not mistaked this +85% of the money never leaves the US shores and goes to repay previous Loans and pays the US Government for surplus military goods( surplus Humvees, Apaches and BlackHawks for example) and pays the cost of those F-15s, F-16s which is a means of keeping many US manufactures that produce these goods in business there by paying the wages of millions of American workers. Unlike the billions given to the Hamas and Suha Arafat!!!

Willem, where in the Constitution does it say that I have to support my fellow citizens? My job is to support my family not Joe Shmo down the street. What specifically do you not like about my posts? OBTW this tax is for everyone who lives OUTSIDE of the US regardless of how much you make. If I do use the system I will have my own health insurance to do so. Why would I expect someone else to pay for me? Sorry, Willem, but our founding fathers fled "old" Europe for a reason. I will be damned if America turns into a nanny state like Europe, especially the Netherlands. We value hard work and limited government. I am entitled to the fruits of my labor to see as what I deem fit. Paying someone else's healthcare is not it. I am for health care reform but THIS bill is the wrong answer.

What a bunch of morons. This have nothing to do with Israeli-Americans. All Americans living abroad will have to pay tax for something they do not get - in England, France, or Saudi Arabia. This bill is a complete disaster and I hope it will be buried in Senate

Although all Americans see the need for Healthcare reform, Americans are beginning to waking up to the radical socialist agenda of BHO & his ilk to transform America into something it was not, constitutionally meant to be - total control by the federal government. In addition the confused 'reform' proffered by the House's incomprehensible 2000 page, ~$1,200,000,000,000 bill is but one example. I spoke to a lawyer friend last week who specializes in medicaid litigation and he said it was written to be vague so the US government can in the end gain full control over the US health system.

If they pay their taxes right aren't they also paying for fire services and policing that they might never use? And education? Opposition to this bill only serves insurance companies, there is no other mitigating factor to argue. Time to grow up and care for your country's poor!

What is unjust is the three billion dollars the US gives to Israel every year...

Can't have it both ways.

LGTB-people are taxed through their noses for services and benefits they are not even allowed to enjoy themselves. Will the AACI support the LGTB community in the US to get tax-exemptions so they don't have to support straight married couples?

Hej airborne, i am writing from a "socialist" country where everyone by law has to have health insurance. I used to live in the USA and was amazed how "free" your citizens are. youre poor have been "freed" from welfare in 1996, you have the "freedom" to remain poor and work three jobs minium wage, attend "great" inner city public schools etc. you have been brainwashed to believe in a system that uses its many poor to feed the few rich and makes you believe you that poverity is your own fault. fly high airborne...

I'm appalled by the AACI and some people on this forum, especially people like "Airborne". This tax - which will only be paid by people who have income that's high enough - is not only your due for paying into a system you might one day use yourself; it's also intended to pay for healthcare for people who can NOT afford it: your Fellow Americans, your compatriots who support YOU in your time of need. I'm absolutely ashamed and disgusted by these people.

is the right of any American but it must be viewed not as a right but a priviledge and therefore the excise tax is just.

Michelle, If you were living in the US with your dual citizenship, you would still pay some taxes to Israel. Some of those Israeli taxes would go to your National Israeli health care plan. You are so fortunate to have that health care plan by having your dual Israeli citizenship. Apparently you don't feel that people carrying only US citizenship are as deserving as those carrying your special dual status. If you don't want to pay for your US national health care then you should take the same position on your Israeli health care. You are displaying a double standard that reveals your true patriotism. Peace Stephen

Airborne: Why should responsible people who are already paying THROUGH THEIR NOSE for healthinsurance - also be taxed for irresponsible people who can but don't buy healthinsurance? Because these people get sick too and will sooner or later end up in an ER and/or in IC where I'm forced to pay to cover for YOUR ASS as well. Health Care is a right. It's given to you by the Hippocratic Oath, and is part of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Article 25 1. Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control. I am PERFECTLY WILLING to pay for people who can not afford it. I am NOT WILLING to cover the asses of people who CAN!

If it was up to me there would be no dual citizenship. I, as an American, find it offensive that people use America when they deem it to their economic advantage, when in fact, they've become nationals of other countries, such as Israel. These people should be made to choose. If they take on Israeli citizenship then they surrender their American citizenship. Then they can stop griping about how health care reforms treat them.

Dont care if it turns into law or not im not paying one penny for american "healthcare" What an oxymoron

we are your best friend in the Middle east and a sheild against the Arabs.

Dual citizenship of convenience....want the perks but not the expense...

wih dual nationality lobby their government to forgo the $9 billion per annum Israel gets in military aid, loan guarantees etc in return for which they will not have to pay $750 per annum for healthcare? Or even better why doesn't the Israeli government take the money given by the American taxpayer and use it to pay Israeli/Amerocan's healthcare insurance on their behalf? Or another option is to forgo your American passports and then as Israelis you will not be liable to pay this National Insurance.

can proclaim themselves to be Israeli whilst holding on to American citizenship. It is an oxymoron where you prove you are not loyal to either. If you do not want to pay towards healthcare provision in the United States, they rescind your citizenship. Why the histrionics as a citizen you have responsibility to the State and if part of your responsoibility is to have healthcare insurance, then so be it. Afterall with dual nationality you do have an option. Besides it is only $250 as the American taxpayer gives Israelis $500 per head per annum as it is.

living in USA or abroad if you consider yourself american you vote your pay for the right of been american, if you do not like it simple! give it up and all the problem is over!

I disagree with you Not all employer give health insurance to their employee! Get it right mister! Again if you dont like usa give up your citenship and let G-D take care you!

protects everyone but US citizens. Up to $250,000 fine and five years in jail if you don't pay. Insurance cos, Big Pharma, Lawyers, AARP, get perks galore, citizens raked over the coals again. 39 Progressive and moderate Dems voted against it for that very reason.

they swear loyalty to another country.

For all you people who are whining about how much money Americans give to Israel and how Americans living in Israel should suck it up and live with it... You are forgetting that Jews are able to declare citizenship in Israel and then reap the benefits of a healthcare system here. What about non-Jews who are living here? If they have to pay for US healthcare, then they are being denied healthcare in the US and in Israel.

Hi Susan, I have seen from your responses that you are a resonable person and that we can have an intelligent conversation regarding Health Care reform. We both agree that health care in the US is expensive however I feel that this bill is not the way to go about it. 1st there needs to be a limit on health malpractice lawsuits. Most of our insurance premiums go to malpractice lawsuits which only drives up the cost. 2nd I do not have a problem with a government option as long as it does not interfear with the private insurance companies. 3rd, allow insurance companies to sell over state lines. Currently that can't which only decreases competition. By implementing all of the above Americans that have trouble getting coverage can get it through the gov't without imposing a tax on 95% of the rest of the population. The car insurance example is not accurate because driving a car is a privilege not a right. People that live in metro areas do not have cars therefore do not need car insurance.

ben alofs, this is an expression every new immigrant in israel knows well. there are some among us who could afford to pay this, but a large number of american israelis survive thanks to the israeli socialist system. we do not have mother tongue hebrew and cannot compete with israelis in the work force. a significant percentage of new immigrants GO BACK home after failing to make it here. is that what the u.s. wants? to drive low-income american israelis into coming back to the u.s.? is that what the american economy and job situation needs right now? funny because that's not what it looks like to me. they'd have to explain to me what i'd get for that $750 for me to want to put myself in poverty and in need of charity to pay for food in order to give up that much of my income. next thing you know, americans will demand charity from africans living in the bush. why not? they're entitled! mark lincoln, i am ashamed and shocked - you are usually a voice of reason, you're wrong here.

why hold on to USA citenship? you dont care about USA! give it up or pay like the rest ! What happen to given up one citenship for the other? we should inforce that law!!

My orthopedic colleagues at my community hospital perform hip replacements every day (with better outcomes and lower complication rates that at the local university hospital, btw) and it is absolute nonsense that patients are paying 70,000K for them. No on in our area could afford that! The vast majority of these patients have Medicare and it is covered. There my be some deductibles with some private plans but nothing like the numbers you are quoting.

Why should Italian Americans show solidarity, why should erman Americans show....well you get the picture

Americans aren't the only Israelis who pay for two health covers. Paying for health insurance coverage is obligatory in Israel, even if you are automatically paying for total coverage already because of another, previous insurance. Hear anyone else complaining? Why should what's sauce for the goose not be sauce for the gander? Why should the poor in America who can't afford to leave their home towns let alone their home country be denied coverage because people who can and do don't want to pay their share?

You are so off-base it's ridiculous. "America" (as if that is a monolithic body) didn't tell us to oppose it; we are Americans and Israelis, and we naturally oppose paying for no service. We don't care what kind of health system America adopts. We just don't want to pay for no service. Your anti-Israel biases are shining through loud and clear and your use of "heil" to mock us by invoking the Holocaust is a disgrace.

I would agree with you that those Americans abroad, who live on minimum income, should not have to pay the $750,-. On the other hand, those who are wealthy, should pay much more than just $750,-

Think of the $750,- tax as a contribution towards a more equitable health care system in the USA. It is for the greater good. If Americans residing in Israel are able to cast their vote in American elections, then surely you shouldn't complain when you are asked to pay a pretty reasonable tax.

Page 28 3rd paragraph provides the exemption.

It means you never worked in the US and do not have the right to Social Security.

There are countless Italian-Americans who retire to Italy, or say, American-Irish who retire to Ireland on Social Security. If they renounce Medicare, they use local health insurance. I can't imagine that America would penalize older Americans retiring abroad simply because they live abroad.

You are right. A lot of these statements are hateful. They really don't understand the American mindset. Few Americans whould ever give up their citizenship as it is very looked down upon. However, people who live in the US should have to buy health insurance. When people show up in hospital emergency rooms and don't have insurance, everyone else ends up paying for them. Hospitals charge patients with insurance more to cover the poor/uninsured and you end up paying higher premiums or your taxes have to cover it. In some cases people are denied care and die right there on the hospital floor. If everyone who drives has to buy car insurance, why not health insurance? Everyone has to go to the doctor sometime. I doubt that there are too many rich people who don't have insurance. I would bet even Donald Trump or Bill Gates do. However, insurance is way too expensive in the US and insurance companies have to be prevented by law from refusing to pay when a person gets seriously sick.

we are poorer than you are, american israelis earn far less than u.s. citizens or u.s. jews, but you want our charity? you are wealthier than we are - we do not have the $750 to give you, greedy pigs, but you would bleed us dry because you feel entitled? this is double indemnity, as michael davison says - we are already paying health care and taxes in israel, far higher than what you pay - almost half our incomes does not arrive with our paychecks! why should we give up our u.s. citizenship? we are american patriots, and like OTHER ex-pats in OTHER countries, we see no reason to send you charity when you have more than us to begin with!

I don't enjoy anything from the US except a passport that I have to renew once every ten years and pay $450 for the priviledge. And for getting nothing I have to file a tax return every year. I don't understand why some people are offended that some Americans chose to live abroad It is our constitutional right to do so. It would be a sad day indeed if someone told us that we couldn't live where ever we want.

I disagree with that. When i went back to Italy for 3 years when my children was young my husband insurance in USA pay for my son stay in the hospitalit was a 3 month stay!. Anyway if israeli american dont like to support other american give up the citenzship simple and stay where you are. It seam they always want something just for them and the hell with the rest. insurance for all american!dont like it? leave and dont let the door hit you in the back..

You still do not get it do you? The debate is not about how much health care is or what the equivalent in NIS is but rather principal and the understanding of the US Constitution. And generosity??? What??? America is what it is because of the CITIZENS not because of the State (gov't). You are so warped in your Israeli socialist mentality that you think it is the State's job to grant you life, liberty and when it happens death! It is not the State's job to grant salvation but G-d. That is the difference between the US and Israel. In Israel the people are subjected to the State whereas in America the gov't is subjected to the people. In addition, most citizens get their health care through their employer. If these impoverished citizens would get a job then they would have health care. Only an Israeli would think it is OK to tax the majority for the sake of the minority.

correct me if i am becoming dull with age. this $750 is an excise tax -- non convertible to be used as health insurance. if one does not reside in the USA and does not use its medical facilities --why should one have to pay any tax for a service not available to us. this seems like an attempt to help pay for the mandatory health care for americans who reside in the states and who would benefit from it....where do my obligations exactly come in to pay for something i can not use by the fact that my non presence obviates its use? perplexed

just leave israel and come back here , or better yet take a trip to a LOST island and take every israeli with a daul citizen with you.

... whose generosity you still enjoy, even tho' you do not live there... the equivalent of less than 3,000 Israeli shekel PER YEAR, towards the health care of impoverished USA citizens, would not annoy you so profoundly...

#28 anus -- that's $500 per capita, not thousands -- so trying to make up massive govt deficit by taxing those in Israel by $250 beyond foreign military aide

... it should be available to us wherever we live, no? It is freely interchangeable amongst EU counties, but my Medicare will not pay bills from outside the US. Why not? [p.s. so I dropped it, as I must now - expensively - 'privately insure' as I live in Berlin.]

another thing - mark lincoln commented that we american israelis in israel hate the u.s. and want to make your lives hard - quite the opposite! it's just that having socialized health care for a long time, we have the experience to understand how it works. i like the idea for the u.s., because it's equitable, but as obama has it, it will never work and it will bankrupt medicaid, etc, because u.s. doctors make disproportionately high incomes and americans are unwilling to accept less than the exaggerated salaries they currently earn. israeli doctors make PENNIES on the DOLLAR compared to american doctors. this is a fact - look it up. israeli doctors are not wealthy, and our socialized education (which we don't have in the u.s.) makes it possible for anyone to be a doctor without insane student loans or wealthy parents. there are so many aspects of this americans are ignoring, and unwilling to look at the experience of other countries - how, when and why does socialized medicine work?

I would never give up my US citizenship. What sets the US apart from communism is that we have the right to live where ever we want.

If in the very rare situation that I would need medical care in the US my kupat cholim would pay a major part of it. But that is rare since we have very advanced medical care here. This $750 doesn't give us health insurance in the US. It is just a fine. If I had to pay income taxes twice, social security taxes twice and health insurance premiums twice, I would starve to death. You people should get real.

in the u.s. i have always voted left - democrat or green or independent left. i support the concept of socialized health care in the u.s., though i'm not sure obama's really tweaked your current draft to the reality of what americans need. however, i truly believe the posters here in this forum do not realize how little money americans in israel - or american israelis in israel, are living on - we are not living the high life that our stateside relatives and friends are living. even in the current economy, my u.s. relatives are far wealthier than i am - i truly cannot afford this $750 tax on something i'll never use and cannot fathom why my fellow u.s. citizens would suggest i give up my citizenship to get out of it - that's NUTS! please revoke your own citizenship, if you're so anxious to have fewer american citizens, but don't tell ME what to do with MINE - despite being an ex-pat, i still contribute to the u.s. in my own way - and you're better off WITH me than WITHOUT me!

No, it is not the law. It is a bill in the Senate and it is unconstitutional. Get your facts straight before commenting.

Hey Dekel, if it wasn't for America then Israel would still be a backwards thrid world nation but instead it is a banana republic. If neither of that was the case then Israel would be swimming with the fishes. So I think that a "thank you" would be in order.

I have very good health care here in Israel that I pay for. If I go to the US I pay extra for travel health insurance. I don't cost American taxpayers anything for my healthcare and I don't want to buy something I don't need. Furthermore, I file tax returns every year. I get no money from uncle Sam and I will get Social Security because my spouse worked for it. It's not just about Jews. Many Americans live abroad and have alternative health care in the countries where they reside. This tax is to get Americans to buy health insurance, but if they have it where they are there is no need to pay more. Part of being an American is being allowed to live where you chose. This is where we differed with the Soviet Union.

Hey Eric, what have you done for your country lately? Why not stop being a leach and go out and purchase your own health care! Health care is not a right. The tax should not remain because it is unconstitutional and if you agree with the tax then YOUR citizenship should be revoked because you are an idiot and do not know what your government can and can not do. Oh, this is coming from a disabled US Army veteran. So I ask you again, what have you done for your country lately.

Hey Bob, that was a very SNARKY post. You obviously do not understand the bill being debated now do you. The large pool to lower costs will also create rationing and poorer service. Who is going to pay for all of these services? What do you think you get for paying 1k/mo? A heart transplant? The gov't has to take money from medicare to pay for all of this. When you hit 65 and medicaid is broke you can only blame yourself. Don't you get it? The constitution says what the government CAN NOT do not what it can do. Sorry to disappoint you Bob but salvation can not be provided by socialism. It has never worked nor will it. Oh by the way, these American citizens who CHOOSE to live outside the US probably pay more in taxes then you do.

Because you are an American citizen, and it is the law.

"If you can vote in a U.S. election you should have some responsibilities as well." What is that supposed to mean? Since when does voting require a tax? I have no responsibilites other then to provide for my family and raise them to be productive citizens in society. My job is not to take care of you Judith. If I use your logic I can say that you have no right to vote because you did not serve in the military. As a disabled US Army veteran I hereby declare that you Judith can not vote because you did not serve in the military. Geez Judith, your logic is deeply flawed.

your dues as an American citizen with dual Israeli nationality. Is to post your American passportto the United States Embassy in Tel Aviv and renounce your citizenship. Personally $750 per annum (less than $2 a day) seems cheap at half the price. But then I suppose you want something for nothing.

'poor Americans should not be prevented from attaining basic health coverage because of parsimonious USA citizens with dual-nationality..." A typical statement from a socialist like yourself. You are just jealous that you don't have US citizenship. If these Americans are poor then why don't they get a job where their employer pays their for health coverage? And if they are poor they have Medicare. You should a little bit about the subject before you make yourself look like a fool.

As a dual US/IL citizen and disabled US Army veteran I find most of the talkbacks here disturbing. "Move back to the US" or "Renounce your citizenship" are all hatefilled arguments. Most of you don't understand the American ethos nor can you intellligently comment on the bill at hand. This isn't about health care at all. America has the best health care in the world. This is about the redistribution of wealth and seizing more power over the American citizen. To mandate that citizens have to buy health insurance violates the constitution (just read Article 1, Section 8). What if I make enough money that I can pay out of pocket for all my health care needs, if I can prove that I don't need health insurance without being a "freeloader", do I still have to pay? Oh what's that? I do? Oh I see, so I am not a "freeloader" but a responsible person and yet I still have to pay in order to subsidize everyone else? Oh yeah that's what I thought.

of course would be to renounce your American citizenship. Then you would not have to pay $750 a year for the privilege of having an American paeeport. Personally an American Passport for $750 per annum is cheap at half the price. But then I suppose Israeli Americans want something for nothing.

to pay the huge US subsidy to Israel's defence, yet Israelis with a US passport don't want to be taxed to pay for the US health reform bill. Israel demands exceptional financial assistance, and gives nothing in return except regional instability, but Israelis with American passports want a waiver that allows them the privilege of being American, without paying for it. Incredible.

Obviously Viper you do not understand what a "pension" is. You have to put $$ in to get a pension jerky. What does an unconstitutional tax have to do with "pension"?

Why should people pay taxes on things they don't use. That would be like making singles and childless couples pay school taxes or those who don't drive pay for new roads, right? To 32 Rita, you're right. I do have to wait for medical care in Canada. After I was diagnosed I had to wait 8 weeks for lung surgery and now I have to wait 3 days to a week for a doctors appointment and two weeks for an MRI. I do get lab tests and X-Rays immediately as I'm sure you do in Israel but I'm sure you don't have to wait as long for surgery and appointments as we do. Must be nice!

or citizenship given up.

... and the optimal cure can be found in the USA... if you have dual USA_Israeli citizenship there will be no problem availing yourself of it... there would be no need for you to make national appeals on TV for nationwide contributions towards your cure... get real, it's a great advantage to hang onto your dual-citizenship... poor Americans should not be prevented from attaining basic health coverage because of parsimonious USA citizens with dual-nationality...

Somebody needs to cite chapter and verse on this, i.e. what specific section of which proposed bill. There are 3 bills currently, the House bill that passed last Saturday night and is now in the Senate and 2 Senate bills. Hint: tax legislation originates by Constitution in the House. But Congress rarely lets the Constitution limit itself. This sounds like somebody sent a press release to the AACI and it got believed. That doesn't mean it's true. If there is a citation, it is easily checked. If no citation is forthcoming, the proposal is likely entirely propaganda. Or, like "death panels," it is entirely a fantasy.

Do any of you attacking Israeli-americans pay taxes if you can legally avoid them? We are trying to find a legal way to avoid paying for services that we have no opportunity of using. There's nothing wrong with that. Besides the only benefit that I have as a US citizen is being able to visit without a visa.

If you think that $750 will get you great healthcare you must be Canadian. This is just another tax, plain and simple. So far the congress and senate are pushing this "healthcare" on everyone but themselves. When I see Obama signing on for the public option for his kids and family, waiting on "lists" for doctor appointments, medicines and surgeries. Then maybe I will pay be $750 tax. This whole healthcare reform is absurb and what is a great medical system will become worst than yours (as many Canadians now pay for private care and don't use their public option).

....from "Uncle Sam", you should be easily able to afford that, shouldn't you...??? :)

Americans in Israel do not use healthcare services in the US. So what you write does not make sense. Why should I pay for something I do not use and why should we be taxed for not using something?

are you entitled to pension benefits?, if so, pay up.

un bloody believable.

as long as they retain american citizenship, they're eligible for coverage, and as long as they ARE eligible, they need to contribute...it's that simple. no one needs, or wants, a "fair weather friend"-or in this case "citizen". the fee is probably aimed primarily at americans without dual citizenship whose work, and primary residence, is outside the united states, and are therefore not paying income tax. but there's no reason to exempt dual citizens from the same, and the so-called "israeli-americans", and any other dual citizen residing outside the united states, should either pay the tax, or lose their dual status. this may also be a way of reducing the number of people who enjoy dual status, which although legally sanctioned, is NOT considered ideal by the government.

Last year, the AACI told me it was my obligation to vote in the US elections, and I took issue with that. Now, after years of US citizens abroad getting yearly income tax refunds ($750 per child, I believe), the AACI is rallying against this tax, which I think is hypocritical. I have no kids, so the tax refund does not benefit me, and I am definitely against paying $750 per year for insurance that I won't be able to use, so I guess I'll express my opposition to the bill via fax to one or more Senators. Which one(s), though? I haven't lived in the US since 1997, and I lived in Pennsylvania, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, and then Florida again before making aliyah; this issue of geographical representation is one reason why I think it is ridiculous for me to vote in US elections. BTW Wouldn't this tax be covered under the dual taxation treaty between the US and Israel; don't we pay an Israeli health tax, and wouldn't this be deducted from the US tax?

More proof that you are just a pathological jew hater and that all your criticism here is a form of bluff and cover for your mental instability. Of course, all American living outside of the US would be affected, not just 'joos' you stupid racist. Why should a student living in London, for example, have to choose between a $750 extra tax and citizenship? Certainly the law would also hurt American citizens in Israel, but go figure, it has nothing to do with either Israel or with Jews. It affects all Americans and therefore is probably of no interest to you.

Luckily I am in the enviable position of having the funds to afford health care in Israel and in the U.S. I travel to the U.S. at least once or twice a year, and always purchase a travel policy in case... If I were to pay $750 yearly for health insurance in my home country I could rest assured that I would receive care there and be worry-free each time I returned for business or pleasure. Maybe $750 is excessive, but it does not even compare to the huge amount I contribute yearly via Betuach Leumi to my Kupat Holim.

-The author mistakenly conflates opposition to the tax with opposition to the bill itself. Later in the article, AACI carefully explains that it is not taking sides on the overall debate over health care reform. -The issue is not about renouncing one's citizenship. The House bill - as oppposed to the Senate Finance Committee bill - exempts Americans abroad from this tax, similar to other American citizens who will be exempted from this tax.

... residing in Israel... ... in any case, this ploy by American-Israels is an ugly move by folks out to enjoy only the advantages of two worlds at the same time...

Americans living in Israel . US citizenship is more than just a convenience, though it appears that many US Jews use it as such.

The underlying implied assumption is that none of us G-d forbid is even planning to use US medical services for our health needs. Thank G-d that at least there is one thing that we can be proud of (even though many complain) the average Israeli has better medical care than the average American!

The House has already. Why waste a press release on a done deal? The US taxpayer already subsidizes each Israeli citizen to the tune of $500, regardless if they have dual citizenship or not. This is not good for Israel, which should be treated like a normal, respected country, and not trade its interests for handouts. Short term greed does not equate to patriotism, especially for a small state. Maybe Obama will trade Bibi this freeloading for a fighter jet deal to the Saudis.

you should have some responsibilities as well.

In 2003/4 I underwent two total hip replacements that cost me not one penny over my health insurance--an operation that US patients pay between $35-70K for (each) depending on the surgeon and hospital. On these joint replacement forums, I have read all sorts of horror stories about failed implants, incompetent surgeons and complications that should never happen. Hip and knee replacements are more common than appendectomies today, with around 400,000 performed annually in the US alone. Is it any wonder that thousands of US citizens travel to Belgium, Israel and India for "medical tourism" every year? With all due respect, Mr. Obama's health care plan is dreadful and needs much improvement to become universal--without punishing those who will never use it, don't want it and have a better alternative.

Why should americans who do not live in the US pay for something they get nothing in return for?. I would rather renounce the US citizenship which is "weight" in todays world rather than a plus. EASY. In Australia we have a more fair government, where so long as we live in Aust and receive income in Aust, we pay medicare, if we stop living in Australia, why should we pay for it. The people above are so up themselves with the American Citizenship, that I would tell them to go out of the country, America is not what it used to be in the 50',60', that is in the past. Do not fight wars if you cant afford them anymore. Reality check my country men/women. Look at China and India catching up quickly with us.

As an Israeli-American who pays for his health insurance in Israel, I object to being taxed twice for the same service. There has been an agreement in place between Israel and the US for more than 50 years that exempts dual citizens from paying double taxes. On the face of it, this bill violates that agreement. At present, expatriate US citizens do not have (and will not have, under this new law) "full health care." For those who don't understand this, a bona fide foreign resident must live outside the US for at least 270 days per year for this exemption. There are some tens of thousands of US citizens living outside the US--and no, we are not "all Republicans". The Democrats in Israel organization is one of the largest non-Israeli organizations in the country. Passing a law that requires anyone to pay for a service they will not use IS unjust. From what I have read in several joint replacement forums, I would never have had my two hip replacements done in the US.

Is it not great to see Israel launch it's attack upon Israeli style 'socialized medicine in America? This is shows just how depraved and degenerate Israel has become. The lunatic American right demands that Israel denounce Israeli style medicine for America and Israel denounces 'socialized medicine' in America. May we get HONEST for a moment? Israel is opposed to America having a medical insurance program far closer to that of Israel than that which the republicans support here. If it is ok for Israelis, why is it wrong for Americans? Simple. Israel supports those who oppose the interests of American citizens, and will stop at NOTHING to harm America. We understand. Israel is an opponent of the best interests of Americans. Israel is arrogant enough to DEMAND that Americans suffer so that the enemies of American can profit. Got you. We understand. 'socialized' medicine is good for Israelis, and Israel, but it is BAD for Americans. Heil Netanyahu!

Get Gilad Schalit home. That would be some dialog with judges in vogue of late. Once he is home we can sort out where to pay 750 $$.

Why not forgo their American citizenship - miss out on having their cake and eating too, that's why not! Out of curiosity, how many, if any, North Americans living in Israel are squatting on Palestinian land?

I don't think it makes sense to charge someone a tax like that. Why? They can't even get health care services from American hospitals if they're abroad. Any American citizen living in Europe or the Middle East wouldn't want to pay for health services they can't even use if they are abroad. Some of you guys didn't read the article properly, obviously.

Within the context of this discussion, the term "Israeli American" is only applicable insofar as the individual in question is residing in the United States. For those who choose not to, your discomfiture over having to pay for a service you will not receive is understandable. You do of course have the option of giving up your US citizenship, thereby rendering the entire issue moot

The article seems to put Canada under USA jurisdiction. As I know, it is not (yet) so. Do not understand the problem as the USA citizen are lawobeying people supposed to pay everywhere their taxes so this is just another one for the privilege of being a USA citizen.

enough of this country being bled by special interests. Join one country or the other.

Citizenship requires certain sacrifices. If there are Jews who are American citizens but CHOOSE to live outside the country, then, of course, they should have to pay the premium. That is the whole argument about affordable health care for all: a large pool that lowers cost. If such citizens wish, they may move back to the US. Fish or cut bait, but do not sabotage a health plan because of such NIMBY attitudes.

I think the ex-pats are looking at this the wrong way. For minor aches and pains you can seek treatment locally but for major problems you can be treated, fully covered, in your own country, America by some of the best doctors in the world in some of the best facilities and all for $750. Try to remember that you are American citizens and either support your country or renounce your citizenship and support another. With rights come obligations.

Are all Israeli Americans also Republicans too? That's a bit of an assumption to say the least...

of being able to claim oneself a "US Citizen". You don't get the benefits of citizenry without giving a little. Don't like it?? Denounce your US citizenship then.

Easy solution. If you don't want to live in the US and you don't want to pay the tax, renounce your US citizenship.

i believe the $750 dollar charge is just. If someone does not have full residency in the united states why should they have acess to the same healthcare as full residents?