Rep. Jim Jordan: ‘Progress being made’ on health care, but ‘we’ll see’ if we get agreement – Washington Times

Rep. Jim Jordan, a past chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, on Thursday said theres progress being made on health care, as President Trump and House Republican leadership try to round up last-minute votes for the GOPs bill repealing parts of Obamacare.

I think theres progress being made, but well see if we can actually get an agreement thats going to do what weve always had as the goal and frankly, as weve said beforewhat the American people sent us here to accomplish, which is repeal it and bring down the cost of insurance, Mr. Jordan, Ohio Republican, said on CNNs New Day.

Mr. Trump is scheduled to meet with members of the Freedom Caucus at the White House Thursday morning.

One last-minute change to the bill reportedly being floated to woo more conservatives is to strip out the essential benefits provision of Obamacare that requires most insurance plans to cover certain items, such as maternity care and emergency services.

Conservatives say coverage thats more tailored to individuals needs, rather than across-the-board requirements, could help lower costs.

But Democrats say inserting such a provision would run afoul of the rules governing the Senate process that limit the extent to which non-budget items can be considered.

Any changes made to win over conservatives at this point also run the danger of alienating other members. Rep. Charlie Dent, a leader of a group of moderate Republicans in the House, announced late Wednesday hes opposed to the House Republican bill.

See original here:

Rep. Jim Jordan: 'Progress being made' on health care, but 'we'll see' if we get agreement - Washington Times