California Advances Bill Setting Up Insurance Exchange
California may become the first state to set up one of the major components of the health overhaul passed last March: insurance exchanges. The state Legislature has sent Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger bills that establish an Internet-based exchange where consumers and small businesses can compare plans. The exchange is seen as a key element in increasing competition and keeping costs down. Republicans opposed the bills, saying that the federal government, not the state, should pay the costs of setting up the exchanges.

What You Can Do For Health Care This Weekend? Fix It
Your bright ideas for cutting the cost of health care could earn you some money. A group that's trying to raise health professionals' awareness about costs is holding an essay contest to find the best suggestions.