Of course they are required to pay for health care insurance. Just they should pay for the basics. Anything else that’s added on should be covered by the insurer. Not talking about the add on portion, businesses should pay for health care insurance because despite most jobs being sit-at-the-desk-and-stare-at-the-computer-screen deals (plus a bit of walking around in the office, like to the copy machine or meeting room), there’s always the possibility of some unforeseen circumstances that could cause a work-related injury.
This is where the health care insurance would kick in; a work-related injury, and you yourself shouldn’t be liable for what happened (unless it was staged). Plus, the company is paying your salary, and in turn you have to pay for your bills with that salary you are given.
So in effect, this move could save some time and all the trouble, as they would just take the basic cost out of your salary, and give you what’s left of it. So not only are you protected under this insurance, you also save yourself trouble by having to pay the bill yourself when it can be done all together – and it’s not like you are the only one getting health insurance. Everyone is, so its not like the company is doing something in favor of you. The best of two worlds; you’re protected in the office, and you don’t have to go through all that trouble.