Both bills would require that health insurance companies offer an essential benefit plan, which would cover medically necessary services to the country's largest population of uninsured. But that's where the similarities appear to end.

Nation's bill would create a benefits fund that would be financed by employers that do not offer health insurance to their workers, individual premiums and state-appropriated dollars.

Meanwhile, Richman said individuals alone should be asked to pay for their health insurance. Aside from low-income families that would qualify for assistance, Richman's bill would mandate that Californians buy coverage that carries at least a $5,000 deductible.

Critics said both bills fail to address the problem - skyrocketing health care costs and barriers that preclude individuals with pre-existing medical conditions from buying affordable coverage.

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