TAMPA, FL— Unfolding right now in Washington, D.C. lawmakers in Congress are closer than ever to passing sweeping reform in the House.Democratic members of Congress have been working on this bill for the better part of a year.
Reporter Kerry Kavanaugh spoke with Republican Congressman Gus Bilirakis moments ago, he believes the Democrats have the votes to pass this bill tonight, though he says Republicans are not giving up their fight. Shortly after that phone call, Bilirakis took to the floor and put forth the Republican plan for health care reform as an alternative.
Earlier today, the top Democrat did what he could to help his party seal the deal.
"Now is the time to finish the job,” said President Barak Obama. “The bill that the House produced will provide stability and security for Americans who have insurance, quality affordable options for those who don't and lower costs for American families and American businesses.”
The President spoke earlier today in the Rose Garden and added that the bill is fully paid for and will reduce the Federal deficit.
Where does it stand now? We expect hours of debate in Congress, as this is a final chance for lawmakers to sound off for and against it.
At some point tonight we do expect Republicans to officially bring their bill to the floor as an alternative.
Nonetheless, a vote on the Democrat’s bill as of now is scheduled for 11p.m.
Kerry Kavanaugh will be closely monitoring the debate and the vote. Look for updates here and on ABC Action News at 11p.m.
