Summary
A proposed budget bill in the US Senate could reduce healthcare services for up to 12 million Americans, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The bill, supported by former President Donald Trump, faces challenges due to concerns about increased national debt and healthcare cuts, and may not have enough support to pass in the Senate.
Key Facts
- The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill could add $3.3 trillion to the national debt.
- The bill proposes $1 trillion in cuts to healthcare funding, affecting programs like Medicaid.
- The bill cleared a preliminary vote with a slim margin of 51-49 in the Senate.
- Senators have 20 hours to debate the bill and can propose amendments before the final vote.
- The Republican party holds a slight majority in the Senate with 53 seats.
- Two Republican senators joined Democrats in opposing the initial move to debate the bill.
- Democratic senators are using procedural rules to delay the vote and force a reading of the lengthy bill.
- If passed by the Senate, the bill would need approval from the House of Representatives and then reach the president's desk for final acceptance.
