It's back!
By: Import User
Updated: October 28, 2009
The public option, which is a government health insurance to compete with private plans, looks likely now to be a part of the latest health care reform bill not just in the House but maybe in the Senate as well.
How a public option might work is still unclear, but House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is pleased it’s gaining in popularity.
“I want public option very very much,” said democratic Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont.
Leahy proposes giving states the choice of opting out and more senators might vote yes.
“That may be the compromise to get public option,” said Leahy
Democratic Senator Carl Levin of Michigan likes it.
“That is a direction which at least puts us on the right path,” said Levin.
But the path leads to a fight.
Republicans and conservative democrats still worry that government insurance would drive private plans out of business and drive down the quality of care.
Republican Whip Eric Cantor in the House Friday said, “The public has rejected the notion of a public option replacing their health care.”
Democratic Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said, “Polling data has revealed that the support for the public option has risen.”
“We believe real competition comes from an individual to choose from a 1000 different insurance plans,” said Cantor.
You're not for a public option and I haven't talked to anyone on your side who's for a public option we disagree!!!!,” said Hoyer.
When the health care bills will get to the floor is still not clear.
