Did Health Insurance Companys PR Blunder Boost Reform?
Less than a month later, the historic legislation passed both chambers of Congress. The House of Representatives passed the Senate’s legislation as-is, with the Senate then passing a package of tax- and budget related changes through reconciliation. After Republicans proposed a handful of amendments to minor elements against parliamentary rules (intending for the bill to come back for another vote, possibly wearing down wavering Democrats), the majority party quickly passed those proposals. Before April Fool’s Day, President Obama signed the bill. How did its prospects change so quickly? A turning point in the momentum occurred in late February. Although Federal Reserve officials claim that the recession is officially over, its impact is still felt by millions of Americans. There has been virtually no inflation over the past several years, while the unemployment rate has skyrocketed and incomes have stagnated or lowered. Despite that, WellPoint–a major health insurance company in Cali
