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Health care reform bill passes U.S. House of Representatives
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President Barack Obama speaks on the U.S. House of Representatives passing health care reform.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care Act of America just after 11 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, November 7. The much-debated health insurance reform bill, endorsed by President Barack Obama, has been called both historic and controversial, and it seems that everyone has an opinion on whether it will truly provide the “quality, affordable health care” the president has promised.
Although the House is controlled by Democrats, all Republicans, with the lone exception of Louisiana Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao, and 39 Democrats, including Idaho Representative Walt Minnick, voted against the legislation. Not surprisingly, the bill was passed by only five votes, 220-215. The bill must still clear the Senate before it can be enacted into law.
According to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, “This legislation is founded on key principles for a healthier America: innovation, competition, and prevention.” The bill will affect tens of thousands of uninsured Americans who would be eligible for health insurance should the legislation become law.
Opposition to the bill is expected to be widespread and not everyone agrees with the view presented by Speaker Pelosi. Controversial topics such as abortion are sure to propel the ongoing debate.
In a statement from America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), CEO Karen Ignagni said, “The current House legislation fails to bend the health care cost curve and breaks the promise that those who like their current coverage can keep it. A new government-run plan will cause millions to lose their existing coverage and draconian Medicare Advantage cuts will force millions of seniors out of the program entirely.”
Much more debate will likely follow. Many of those opposed to the Affordable Health Care Act of America say that they realize that a change is needed; however, they don’t believe this particular legislation is the best solution.
What are your thoughts on the passing of H.R. 3962 by the U.S. House of Representatives?
Feel like reading the nearly 2,000 page bill for yourself? Click here
In this video, President Obama talks about the impossible task of pleasing everyone.
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