Senate Health Care Reform Floor Debate at Standstill; Additional Provisions Unknown

The Senate Democrat’s race to pass a health care reform bill by Christmas is on hold while the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analyzes their latest batch of proposals to be considered as part of a “manger’s amendment.” The CBO analysis will likely not be completed before next week. Deep secrecy surrounds the manager’s amendment provisions and discussions about unresolved aspects of the health reform bill. The amendment may address concerns of moderate Democrats in components that have yet to be worked out. It is likely that statutory language for a new Federal option managed by the Office of Personnel Management and a new Medicare buy in for individuals age 55-64 will be included. Provisions related to employers’ role in health coverage are also rumored to be included. Senate Majority Leader Reid (D-NV) will not bring the bill to a vote until he has secured 60 senators to vote in favor of the legislation.