WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and SportsSenate Democrats meet to merge health care bills
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WASHINGTON (WKOW) -- Democratic lawmakers are hoping to send a finalized health care reform bill to the full Senate sometime this week.
Closed door negotiations are set to resume Monday. The White House and lawmakers are faced with the task of blending five very difference House and Senate committee versions of health care reform legislation into a bill that will pass both houses.
Some key differences: House Democrats are insisting on the government-run plan or public option. The Senate health committee's plan includes a public option, while the finance committee's plan does not.
Near unanimous opposition from Republican lawmakers is expected. Senate Democrats need 60 votes to block a filibuster. One option they are considering to garner more support is allowing states to opt out of a public option.
White House advisors say President Obama believes a government-run health care option would best meet the country's needs but he's not demanding it be included.
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