U.S. House passes Obama-backed health bill, 219-212
The U.S. House of Representatives on Sunday, March 21, gave final approval to a massive health care restructuring bill, H.R. 3590, strongly opposed by Right to Life of Michigan and National Right to Life Committee.
The House vote was 219 to 212 in favor of the bill. All 219 votes in favor were cast by Democrats. Of the opposing (prolife) votes, 178 were cast by Republicans and 34 by Democrats. The official roll call can be viewed here.
Because the Senate already approved the bill on December 24, 2009, it will now go straight to President Barack Obama for his signature.
Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, "We are deeply disappointed and dismayed that Rep. Bart Stupak (D) approved of a compromise in the form of an executive order. With the compromise, some prolife U.S. House Democrats supported the health care bill."
Lawmakers who voted for this bill voted to require federal agencies to subsidize and administer health plans that will pay for elective abortion and voting to undermine longstanding prolife policies. This was a key, defining vote.
The executive order promised by President Obama was issued for political effect. It changes nothing. It does not correct any of the serious pro-abortion provisions in the bill. The president cannot amend a bill by issuing an order, and the federal courts will enforce what the law says.
The question of Rep. Bart Stupak's endorsement is one for the Right to Life of Michigan Political Action Committee. As stated above, this vote was scored as a pro-abortion vote and will certainly be a defining factor in present and future endorsements.
Barbara Listing said, "Prolife citizens know, and they will be reminded again and again, which lawmakers deserve their gratitude for voting against this pro-abortion legislation and which lawmakers should not be supported for re-election. This serves as a reminder for us all to be involved in the political process. Lives depend upon it."
