By ALEXIS ZOTOS
6 News Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Some people in Knoxville told 6 News the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Health Care Act is life changing for anyone struggling to afford care.
Rick Roach is uninsured and suffers from high blood pressure. He's been employed off and on and says the ruling will change his life.
"Even those that are working hard every day and trying to take care of their families, it's hard to afford health care," Roach said. "The costs are absorptive and now that the Affordable Health Care Act is kept in place, prices can start to go."
Roach says personal benefits aside, the ruling speaks volumes for the country as a whole. "This is how we take care of our citizens, and this is how we take care of our people," he said.
Even some not directly affected by the ruling were in support. "I was very happy, very pleased. It's the right step in the right direction for this country," said Valencia Brown.
"I think it's a good thing. I think most people should be entitled to some form of health care. I think it's complicated, but it's a step in the right direction," said Jay Giganti.
However, not every one is pleased with the ruling. "I think that more government involvement is what we don't need at this time, and I think there's enough regulations in place as they exist," one man said.
Roach says he understands the concerns, but overall the health care act is monumental for all Americans.
"I understand some people think this is an infringement of their rights, but in the end we have to realize we are a nation that is compassionate and care for each other as citizens and that should be the final thought. That's what we want to happen," Roach said. "If we have anyone that suffers because they don't have access to affordable health care, then we all suffer."
"This is how we take care of our citizens, and this is how we take care of our people," Rick Roach said.
