CLOSE TO 300,000 SIGN UP FOR INSURANCE

Here's a press release from the Patrick administration today that predicts almost 300,000 residents will have signed up for or purchased health coverage by December 31st. The state is also announcing that low to moderate income residents will have some extra time (until December 20th) to apply for the subsidized plans (Commonwealth Care) and avoid the first year tax penalty. 19 to 26 year olds who want to buy a "Young Adult Plan" have until the 24th.

One friend now has insurance for the first time in years. He had a check up in October that detected a life threatening problem. Doctors treated him immediately...and the state paid for care that would otherwise have put him in debt for years.

Another friend is furious that the state is forcing him to spend money on health insurance that he hoped to save for a downpayment on a condo.

Is the law a success?