This is not a public option or no public option issue.
This is an issue where a policy is being enforced to a strictness that, in this case, raises an emotional response.
Sure we all feel a bit angry when a person is denied medical coverage for a "mere" $0.02. That's the whole purpose of the story.
What I don't understand is why they did not pay the extra 2 cents when they paid their following month's bill?
If I get a bill, for something as important as medical insurance and it has listed
Forwarded balance $0.02
Current Balance $328.69
Total Due $328.71
Why didn't they either pay the extra $0.02 (no brainer) or immediately call the insurance company to ask about the two cents?
Ultimately
it is the responsibility of the customer to pay the premium.
Did the insurance company act like jerks? Of course they did. Honestly does anyone expect caring and consideration from COBRA?
But, did this family take any reasonable actions to mitigate this issue such as paying the two cents or calling the company to inquire? Evidently not. Their solution was to ignore the problem.
Yes on an emotional level, this issue is terrible. I am angry at this. But logically I can't ignore that this family did contribute to this issue by not paying the full amount or calling/writing the insurance company to inquire about the "extra" $0.02