To agree to the legislation of expanding insurance coverage to nearly all US citizens
The Senate health committee of US has cast a vote to agree to the legislation of expanding insurance coverage to nearly all Americans – reported in Associated Press.
The 13-10 party line vote advanced a $600 billion measure, that would require individuals to get health insurance and employers to contribute to the cost. Democratic leaders are driving for floor votes in the House and Senate before Congress goes on its August break.
The health committee bill intends the government to offer financial aid with premiums for individuals and families, making up to four times the federal poverty level (about $88,000 for a family of four).
Barack Obama, US President, said: “The Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee vote should give us hope, but it should not give us pause. It should instead provide the urgency for the House and Senate to finish their critical work on health reform before the August recess.