KTUU.com | Alaska's news and information source | U.S. House passes $1.1 trillion, 10-year health care plan

U.S. House passes $1.1 trillion, 10-year health care plan

by Rebecca Palsha
Saturday, November 7, 2009

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- After an all-day clash between Democrats and Republicans, the House voted 220 to 215 Saturday to approve a health care plan that would cost $1.1 trillion over 10 years.

Democrats say the plan would provide relief to Americans struggling to buy or retain health insurance. They were forced to make major concessions to attract final votes for the bill and secure its passage, including an amendment that prevents the plan from covering abortions.

House leaders hope to make changes to that amendment during negotiations with the Senate, which will now become the main battleground in the health care fight as Democrats there ready their own bill for what is likely to be extensive floor debate.

"I thank the president for his tremendous leadership," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. "Because without President Obama in the White House, this victory would not have been possible. He provided the vision and the momentum for us to get the job done for the American people, and for that we are very, very proud."

"Don't tax me to pay for health care that you guys want," Rep. John Shadegg, R-Arizona, said to a baby he was holding on the House floor. "If you want health care, pay for it yourself."

"I am scared and disappointed by the wheeling and dealing, and political tactics that led to the passage of this bill," Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska, said in a written statement. "Thousands and thousands of people made their voices heard this week on Capitol Hill, and they were all ignored by Speaker Pelosi. Instead, she chose to feed her ego, by pushing through one of the largest taxes on the American people."

The bill would expand coverage to millions of uninsured Americans, and in part prevent insurance companies from refusing coverage because of pre-existing conditions. The Senate now has to vote on its version of the bill, which is not expected until at least December.

Contact Rebecca Palsha at rpalsha@ktuu.com