Debates on Health Care Reform Await Congressional Leaders
While the chairs of five congressional committees have reached a consensus on the key elements of health reform legislation, "members of Congress are just now turning to the most explosive issues, which could delay or derail the process," the New York Times reports.
According to the Times, lawmakers have not:
- Determined how to pay for coverage of the uninsured;
- Addressed Republican opposition to a proposed government-run insurance plan that would compete with private insurers; or
- Determined the role of state insurance regulators.
Congressional leaders have set a timetable that would have the House and Senate voting on separate health reform bills by the end of July.
Nancy-Ann DeParle, director of the White House Office for Health Reform, said she has not yet made specific policy recommendations to Congress, adding, "My job is to work with members of Congress. They are the ones doing the hard work. We are providing technical assistance. We help them with the nuts and bolts" (Pear, New York Times, 4/1).
This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.