The House of Representatives passed the most comprehensive health care reform since Medicare on Saturday night, advancing President Obama’s campaign promise to make health care available to all Americans.
Democrats erupted in cheers throughout the house chamber when the 218th, the vote tally needed for passage, was cast. The bill passed narrowly 220 to 215 and garnered one lone Republican vote, Rep. Joseph Cao of Louisiana, while 39 Democrats defected.
“For generations, the American people have called for affordable, quality healthcare for their families. Today the call will be answered,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who was forced to concede to conservatives by adding an abortion limitation to the bill.
The amendment was a last minute addition that passed 240-194. It would bar the government and private insures from covering abortion procedures. This move upset many liberal members but it was not enough to prevent the bill as a whole from passing.
The bill proposes to create an exchange where the uninsured and businesses could buy coverage, either through private insurers or a government run option. Health care providers could not refuse coverage to individuals due to pre-existing conditions or restrict those who are deemed high risk.
The bill now moves on to the Senate.
UPDATE: The lone Republican to vote in favor of the bill speaks to CNN. Click here for video.
Comments
To all of those who own a business and who will be hit with yet another assault on their finances.
This time, when the layoffs come because of this, PLEASE lay the liberals off first, they asked for and got what they wanted. Let them be first to experience the result of their policies.
I applaud Democrats for following through on healthcare reform.
To those of you who think that liberals are cuasing their problems and that more personal an social selfishness will solve them please note that the conservatives have had their way for years an this philosopy has not worked.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!