Moderate Democrats Join Call for Full Legislative Language and Final CBO Score Before A Vote

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 7:52 AM

Giving additional momentum to the 'read the bill' efforts, Congress Daily reports this morning that eight moderate Democrats have asked Senate Leader Harry Reid to post the final version of the healthcare bill text and the final CBO score online for 72 hours before the first vote to proceed. Writes Congress Daily (subscription):

The moderates want the text as amended and modified CBO scores available electronically 72 hours before a final vote on the measure. If Reid determines he must acquiesce to the moderates to get the bill passed, such efforts could delay a final vote further by a few weeks at least.

"Whether or not our constituents agree with the direction of the debate, many are frustrated and lacking accurate information on the emerging proposals in Congress," the senators wrote. "Without a doubt, reforming health care in America is one of the most monumental and far-reaching undertakings considered by this body in decades. We believe the American public's participation in this process is critical to our overall success of creating a bill that lowers healthcare costs and offers access to quality and affordable health care for all Americans."

Of course, Sen. Reid, who wants the bill to go through fast, remains non-committal.  But it means that the pressure is on.

Tags: Transparency FederalSpending Federal | Comments (0)