WASHINGTON, D.C. (YBH.ME) – Narrowly passing by a vote of 220 to 215, the much-debated health care bill (HR 3962) has passed, as of 11:32 p.m. Washington time yesterday. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was reported to be near tears upon the bill’s passage. Friday night concessions to the so-called “Blue Dog Democrats”, which severely limited abortion coverage, cemented the needed votes. One lone Republican, first-termer Representative Joseph Cao, of a heavily Democrat district in Louisiana, voted for the bill. Opposing were 176 Republicans and 39 Democrats. Opp0nents who came over to supporting the bill generally did so in hopes of writing out the portions they opposed. Others received promises of special considerations for their districts by the White House.
Nancy Pelosi squeaks health care legislation through House.
A rare Saturday appearance on the Hill by President Obama is thought to have sealed the deal for many, as he appealed to members to “answer the call of history.”
Now the Senate must bring a measure to the floor for debate, and much negotiation between the two chambers will unfold before any bill hits the President’s desk.
The just-passed bill will require most Americans to buy health insurance or face onerous penalties. Employers would have to provide coverage or face penalties. Medicaid would be expanded and a national insurance exchange would be set up.
Concerns about Federal red ink are expected to fuel the Senate’s upcoming debates. Addressing tort reform and creating insurance competition across state lines are hoped-for provisions in the Senate bill, currently under filibuster threat in its present form.
