Most of us have read about the financial problems that California is facing, but one small town is taking their financial problems over board. The people in Tracy, California will have several options if and when they need to call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency. They can sign up for a yearly fee of $48 for calling 9-1-1 for a medical emergency or pay up to $300 per call each time they call for a medical emergency. It gets better if you are a non-resident and just traveling through Tracy, since you will be charged $400 for the honor of calling for help.

When I read this I recalled a skit by Bob Newhart in which he played the part of a fire dispatcher. The caller reports a fire at his house and is questioned if he has fire insurance from the fire department. While the house burns, Newhart explains to the resident several options and pricing for the insurance. The skit ends after the house has burned to the ground and Newhart asks the caller if they would still like to buy insurance for the next house fire.

At the time the skit was funny, but no one in their right mind would have taken it seriously. But the people in Tracy, California seem to be facing a similar situation. One can only imagine how the city council of  Tracy could of come up with such an outlandish idea. Will they start charging for 9-1-1 fire or police calls as well?

Do you agree that this is just a dumb idea?

Share your thoughts.

Comments welcome.

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