With approval of the Senate Finance Committee’s version of health reform, the way is cleared for the real behind the scenes bargaining to begin. Since Democrats on the committee killed most amendments, including the one requiring that any final bill be posted on the internet for the public to read and comment on (as well as the CBO’s projection of real costs based on real bill, not just a concept), we will likely not know the details of any final bill until it is too late to make any substantive changes. Clearly there will be battles ahead. Those on the left are adamant about a public option of some type, those on the right are opposed. Those on the left want more insurance regulation, those on the right are opposed. Raising funds to pay for all this remains the 64 dollar question – or should I say the multi-billion dollar question. So called fees and fines, are essentially tax increases in disguise. Additionally, the so called “savings” to be obtained from Medicare are in fact cuts in Medicare payments to facilities and providers as well as reduction in benefits and access for seniors. Once Senator Reid has his way with the two Senate bills, we will still have to see what comes from the Senate/House Conference Committee in terms of a final bill. If in fact a bill emerges, no doubt President Obama will sign it, no matter what detractors from the left or right have to say. We can only hope that those in Congress will listen to the legitimate concerns expressed by the public about overreaching in terms of federal involvement in health care operations . . . obi jo
Senate Finance approval critical step toward passage of health reform
The 14-9 vote in the Senate Finance Committee Tuesday in favor of the healthcare bill sponsored by Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT) is being treated by the media as a major milestone toward the enactment of the President’s healthcare reform plans. Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-ME), who crossed party lines to support the Baucus plan, is receiving much praise for her vote. Snowe’s decision could have wide implications as Democrats seek the 60 votes needed to clear the next hurdle: a vote by the full Senate. er.” Sen. Reid will meld the finance panel bill with one approved by the Senate health committee in July, forcing him to resolve differences over a host of issues that divide both political parties and risk rupturing Democratic unity.
Health bill clears hurdle with support from Snowe – http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091013/ap_on_go_co/us_health_care_overhaul
$829B Baucus health care bill clears hurdle for debate – http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-10-12-healthcare_N.htm
Healthcare reform bill clears Senate Finance Committee – http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-health-vote14-2009oct14,0,50753.story
Senate Finance Panel Passes $829 Billion Health Plan – http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=af.W5ugPdjtQ
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