The problem with that is that not everyone can actually get private health care, due to pre-existing conditions. I am very healthy (basically just asthma and allergies now), but for some reason I can't get insurance without it being provided by an employer, due to a pre-existing condition (something to do with the back surgery I had a few years ago that fixed my herniated discs, that I don't have to take any medication for anymore. I'm not 100% sure). My mother would never be able to get private insurance, since she has an incredibly rare lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. So, not everyone that needs health insurance can just get it easily (or at all). If it were possible, then that would be a different story.

I don't think this bill is the best way for the government to go about providing healthcare to everyone (especially if you are fined for not having it, wtf), but in general it's a good idea. It's really refreshing to hear a politician actually do more than dismiss it outright.