Topeka ? The Kansas NAACP argued Wednesday that a proposed “Health Care Freedom Amendment” to the state constitution would keep thousands of Kansans uninsured and stifle a discussion in the state over federal health reform.

The group had a news conference to criticize the proposal, which would prohibit the state from requiring any individual or business to buy health insurance. It also would prevent the state from requiring anyone to participate in a particular health care plan.

Officials from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored Persons said the measure is designed to block the state’s participation in any federal health care reform.

Identical resolutions containing the proposed amendment are before House and Senate committees. The House and Senate must adopt a resolution by two-thirds majorities, and a simple majority of voters must approve the proposition in the Nov. 2 general election to change the constitution.