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Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Back issues
Courthouse News Service Courthouse News Service

Baucus Presents Health Care Bill for $856B

WASHINGTON (CN) - Democratic Sen. Max Baucus on Wednesday presented a $856 billion plan to revamp America's health care system. The proposal - which still lacks Republican support - would be funded by the $507 billion in federal cuts to government health programs and $349 billion in new taxes, including a tax on high-end insurance plans, The Associated Press reported.

The chairman of the Senate's Finance Committee's proposed bill could require most people to purchase insurance or pay a fine, and prevents insurance companies from charging more to those with serious health issues, the AP reported.

The bill also would allow Americans to shop around for insurance as part of a new purchasing exchange, the AP reported. Medicaid also would be expanded, with limits placed on a patients' annual health care costs.

The proposed plan also would prevent federal funds from being used to pay for abortions except in cases of rape, incest or life-threatening health issues involving the mother. It also will make sure those buying into the insurance are American citizens, although illegal immigrants with American-born children could get coverage.

Baucus' committee is expected to vote on the bill as early as next week, the AP reported.

President Obama has said he wants a revamp of the health care system to provide coverage to nearly 50 million Americans who are without it.

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