Policy Makers Still Considering Future of Health Reform - January 26, 2010

After the surprising election of Senator-elect Scott Brown (D-MA) last week, policymakers in the White House and in Congress have yet to decide on a course of action on health reform legislation. Several proposals have emerged including House passage of legislation passed by the Senate in December, passage of a budget reconciliation bill – perhaps in tandem with passage of the Senate bill – and passage of a significantly slimmed-down bill which would include only those policies with broad support. Congressional leaders may choose to not act on health reform legislation for several weeks or even months, refocusing on the economy and job-creation. President Obama will deliver his State of the Union address on Wednesday, Jan. 27. He will likely signal the White House’s intent for health reform in the speech.