Hello everyone, I know lots of people are psyched with the latest news out of Virginia.. I know I am!  I am one of the unlucky residents of Massachusetts who is unable to afford healthcare.  My employer doesn't offer it, and instead of the state offering to assist me in purchasing it, they decided to fine me $2,000 in 2009.

I am currently in a court battle with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  I know there are many Massachusetts residents who know about my ongoings but I don't believe it's reached nationwide coverage.

The Boston Herald has run several articles on my case, I've been interviewed by several radio shows, and did a quick television interview on NECN.

I should also  add that I am representing myself in this lawsuit against the state, considering I cannot afford to hire an attorney.  His or her fees would outweigh the cost of the fines anyways.  I have filed a Motion for Judgment with the Superior Court and I have a hearing scheduled on January 6th, 2011.  I honestly have no idea what's going to happen!

If any of you folks are on Facebook I'd love for you to visit the page I setup to keep people in the loop.  Here's the link: Merlina vs. Massachusetts

The state has hired a private law firm to fight me.  The latest news from the Herald is that they are paying those lawyers $125/hr to fight my case.  It must be nice to have unlimited resources.  I on the other hand am just a 29 year old guy who cuts glass for a living in Peabody, MA for a small family business. *sigh*

Keep up the good fight!

Michael Anthony Merlina