Late this evening, the House voted 219 to 212 to pass the health care reconciliation bill. No Republicans voted for the bill and 34 Democrats also voted no. From NPR News:
Capping a year of legislative activity and ending decades of Democratic frustration, the House on Sunday passed a bill designed to provide widespread health coverage to Americans.
"We have come to a defining moment in our nation's history," said James Clyburn (D-SC), the House Democratic whip. "This is the civil rights act of the 21st century."
As the GOP promised, not a single Republican voted for the measure. "This is truly a remarkable moment in the life of this nation. Some say we're making history. I say we're breaking history, breaking with our best traditions," said Mike Pence (R-IN), who chairs the House GOP Conference. "Only in Washington, D.C, can you spend a trillion dollars and say that you're saving the taxpayers money."
With a vote count of 219 to 212, the House gave its approval to a measure initially passed by the Senate on Christmas Eve. Thirty-four Democrats joined 178 Republicans in voting no. That bill now goes to President Obama for signing.
Quoting a letter from the late Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-MA) to President Obama, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, "Passing health care is the great unfinished business of our country." She added, "That is, until today."
The House still has to pass a so-called reconciliation measure that makes significant changes to the main health care bill. If the House passes it, the Senate will debate that measure this week.
Senate action will be marked by extensive parliamentary maneuvering. But Democrats are optimistic about their chances in that chamber.
For the full story, click here: Hard Fought, House Delivers Historic Health Bill March 21, 2010
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House Approves Landmark Bill to Extend Health Care to Millions March 21, 2010
Historic Health Bill Passes March 21, 2010
House approves Senate health-care bill March 21, 2010
