Senate Passes Second Amendment to Health Care Bill

As the Senate debates the controversial health care bill, amendments to the bill have begun to arise. One such amendment was passed today, the second to be passed regarding the bill. This amendment, forwarded by Maryland Democrat Barbara Mikulski, would expand, specifically, the coverage of women's health care. The amendment, which was passed 61 to 39, would allow the government to require health insurance companies to cover screenings and other preventative care measures for women at little or no cost to the woman. This proposal was one of two regarding women's health care coverage, the other being an amendment to the bill introduced by Alaskan Republican representative Lisa Murkowski. Mikulski argued that Murkowski's plan did not do enough to cover the up-front costs of preventative measures for women; Mikulski want "universal access" for the service. This is an interesting event in the health care process, because it shows an issue not often thought about in health care reform. It is known that screenings and preventative measures for women are needed, but it is not so well known that many people cannot afford what the bill is basically calling "essentials." This is also and interesting issue because it shows the legislative debate process. While a bill is on the floor, many changes are made through and amendment process - an amendment process which takes time and money. It shows the thouroughness, yet slowness, of the American Legislative system. The article link is HERE.