Sally Bustamante fears that government healthcare reform could end up forcing some small companies to close their doors.

Proposed federal requirements for businesses providing health insurance, or facing a tax if they don’t, could weigh too heavily on some businesses that are already struggling, she said.

"We don’t know what the answer is," said Bustamante, human resources manager at Bates Container in North Richland Hills. "We wish we did. We do believe that many small businesses will be put out of business."

And, she added, "if employers close their doors, unemployment rises."

Bustamante was among more than 60 people who attended a forum Tuesday on the possible impact of proposed healthcare reform on businesses.

This meeting, hosted by U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Lewisville, was one of many being held nationwide by Congress members this month as they try to determine what Americans think of the Democratic plan. President Barack Obama has asked Americans to voice their opinions; some Democrats have faced crowds of unhappy people.

Burgess’ meeting was invitation-only, geared to serve as a policy forum for North Texas business owners. He has already held several town halls. He said he doesn’t know whether the proposal, as it exists now, will pass.

"Prospects for passage are more problematic than in July," he said. "However, you have a president who is enormously popular ... 


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