By Elizabeth Roberts on
2/25/2010 10:19 AM
This morning I met with RI Business Group on Health to discuss what we can do in Rhode Island to address the urgent need for health care reform and cost containment.
This local discussion happens to coincide with President Obama’s health care summit today, when all eyes will be on Washington as he brings together Democratic and Republican leadership to hammer out a path to passage of federal health care reform.
I’m glad to see the president tackle...
Read More »
|
By Elizabeth Roberts on
2/19/2010 11:43 AM
As part of my Buy Local RI initiative, this week I kicked off a month-long, statewide tour of small businesses focused on arts and culture—businesses that create entrepreneurial growth and jobs as well as boost the quality of our lives here in Rhode Island.
From small jewelry manufacturers, to on-stage performers, to high-end graphic designers and so many more, the small businesses of the arts and culture sector are a key component of the state’s economy.
...
Read More »
|
By Elizabeth Roberts on
2/16/2010 8:39 PM
Over the last few days, I have been humbled by the support of many Rhode Islanders who have encouraged me to enter the race to succeed Congressman Kennedy representing Rhode Island’s first district in Washington. While it would be an honor to have the opportunity to be a member of congress, my place right now is here in Rhode Island.
As I declared last July, I will run for re-election as lieutenant governor. Rhode Islanders need an advocate - someone who...
Read More »
|
By Elizabeth Roberts on
2/9/2010 2:57 PM
Health insurance commissioner Christopher Koller yesterday approved a 7 percent rate hike for Blue Cross Blue Shield direct-pay plans—a reduction of both the original 10.2 percent request and the 9.5 percent increase agreed to by the attorney general and Blue Cross last week.
While I am encouraged that the commissioner further lowered the rate hike to address affordability issues, the approved 7 percent hike will still be a tremendous financial burden for struggling Rhode Islanders. From my press release:
...
Read More »
|
By Elizabeth Roberts on
2/3/2010 4:13 PM
I’m encouraged that both the president and the governor have shown recognition this week that small business needs governmental support during this economic downturn—an encouraging beginning but we can’t stop there.
President Obama has proposed using up to $30 billion of repaid bailout loans to encourage community banks to lend to local small businesses and giving small businesses a $5,000 payroll tax credit for each new hire—part of a larger federal effort...
Read More »
|