Healthcare bill sparks public debate in Uptown Normal

3/20/2010 3:51:00 PM
By: Jim Fitzpatrick    

Local residents battled over the issue of healthcare reform in Uptown Normal Saturday afternoon. Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson has decided to vote for the Health Insurance Reform Bill before Congress. Those opposing the legislation gathered outside her office to voice their concerns.

   
Those is favor of the measure rallied in support - just a few feet away.


Meanwhile, Halvorson's office released a statement citing "reform is necessary and long overdue." Tea Party activists decided to make a phone call to Halvorson's D.C. office.


While those in support of healthcare reform thanked the congresswoman.


Tea Party activists made it clear they do not want to see this bill pass.


While those in support of the legislation say they're glad Halvorson is standing with them.


Halvorson says "the choice is to be on the side of reform or on the side of the status quo" which she says "makes insurance company CEOs rich while families suffer."   House Democratic leaders are abandoning a controversial plan that would have allowed lawmakers to approve the health care overhaul bill without directly voting on it. Instead, they say they'll hold a straight up-or-down vote on the bill already passed by the Senate as well as a companion bill containing changes they hope the Senate will adopt.

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