The bad news for Clinton: this key committee rejected requirements that employers provide health insurance. The good news: liberal Democrats have joined with moderate Republicans to break the logjam.
Liberal warhorse Ted Kennedy delivered for Clinton. The committee approved universal coverage, government controls and generous benefits. His bill won’t pass, but it provides a liberal counterweight to the more conservative Finance bill.
Last week it passed, 20-18, a bill that includes universal coverage, employer contributions and, out of left field, a plan to let younger people buy into the seniors’ Medicare plan.
After months of horse trading and cajoling, chairman John Dingell gave up on his bill. Ways and Means’ success means Dingell’s failure matters less.
The most liberal committee in Congress passed “Clinton chubby,” equipped with mandates, universal coverage and generous benefits. It even approved a Canadian-style single-payer plan, too. House leadership now melds these bills and Ways and Means’ into one.
