Talk Radio News Service: News, Politics, Media

By Chingyu Wang-Talk Radio News Service

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) told reporters Tuesday that if the Senate alters the reconciliation bill passed by the lower-chamber Sunday night, the House is ready to vote on the package of amendments again.

"Our members are prepared to vote again," Hoyer said.

According to the rules governing Congress, any change made to the reconciliation bill by the Senate would require the bill to be re-approved by the House.

Hoyer said that he expects the Senate to act soon.

"Expect the Senate to be able to approve [the reconciliation bill] before the end of the week,” the Majority Leader said.

Hoyer also shot back at Republican criticism Tuesday, stating that healthcare reform “is not a government takeover" and will have positive effects on all Americans immediately.

“These bills reach broader and deeper and will have positive effects on every American’s life,” said Hoyer.

“Starting right away, tax credits will be available for small businesses and there will be relief for seniors who fall into the Medicare prescription drug 'donut hole' gap in their coverage,” Hoyer explained.