The Health Care Vote Results HR 3962: Americans step closer to an NHS

November 8, 2009 by Baby Chums
Filed under: News

In a historic vote, America has stepped closer to a National Health Service, (NHS) clone with the passing of a bill through the House of Representatives called, “Affordable Health Care for America Act” or, “HR 3962″.

The bill passed 220-215. The President called supporters of the bill, including Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi thanking them for their support. Unexpectedly one Republican, Rep. Anh “Joseph” Cao of Louisiana also backed the bill.

Here’s a Statement from President Barack Obama on the House Passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act:
“Tonight, in an historic vote, the House of Representatives passed a bill that would finally make real the promise of quality, affordable health care for the American people.

“The Affordable Health Care for America Act is a piece of legislation that will provide stability and security for Americans who have insurance; quality affordable options for those who don’t; and bring down the cost of health care for families, businesses, and the government while strengthening the financial health of Medicare. And it is legislation that is fully paid for and will reduce our long-term federal deficit.”

It’s estimated that by 2019, the bill would leave about 96% of legal residents with health insurance, up from 83% now. To pay for this insurance coverage, the government intends to tax the super rich and all but the smallest employers would be required to provide insurance and pay for the majority of the premium.

Medicare will see cut backs of billions, considered to be a wasteful spender.

The next stage for this bill is the Senate and the greater challenge, 60 votes out of 100 must be garnered to proceed to a final vote. Though the bill is not expected to reach the senate till 2010.

Obama said confidently: “I look forward to signing comprehensive health insurance reform into law by the end of the year.”