COLUMBIA -- The South Carolina chapter of a leading small business group released a statement today opposing the public-option health care plan being considered by Congress.

J.J. Darby, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business, said small business owners are concerned the bill would increase costs to businesses and harm the overall economic recovery.

"No one needs healthcare reform more than small businesses, but so-called reform that increases costs for small businesses, taxes jobs and eliminates healthcare options currently available to small employers is simply unacceptable," said Darby. 

Congressman Joe Wilson also released a statement today announcing he will offer an amendment to the federal health care bill Wednesday that would require all Members of Congress and Senators to enroll in the public option.

State Democratic Party Chairwoman Carol Fowler told WACH FOX News Monday that opponents are attempting to defeat the bill by labeling it a government takeover, but she says the measures would benefit ordinary South Carolinians.

"Congressman Wilson and the rest of the Republicans in Congress promised months ago to that they would provide a plan of their own for health care reform...and they just haven't done it," said Fowler.

According to Congressman Wilson's office, he will unveil the proposed amendment tomorrow at a press conference on Capitol Hill.