Procedural Senate Vote on Health Care Reform Passes, Debate Begins

On Tuesday, July 25, the Senate narrowly passed a procedural vote to begin debate on health care repeal and replace legislation.  The vote passed 51-50 with Vice President Mike Pence casting the tie-breaking vote.  All Democrats voted against the bill, as did two Republican Senators.

The procedural vote, known as a motion to proceed, marked an important accomplishment for Senate Republican leadership, who struggled to obtain sufficient votes for proposed health care legislation over the past few weeks.  Next, the Senate will begin 20 hours of debate on proposed legislation, followed by votes on several proposals – including repeal and replacement, and repeal-only legislation, among other options.  Votes on the proposals are expected in the coming days.

ASA leaders and staff will continue to monitor these developments and will continue to provide updates and resources at www.asahq.org/healthcarereform.