Health Bill Poised to Move Ahead in House

Democratic leaders say they have worked out a last-minute dispute, clearing the way for a sweeping health care bill to move ahead in the House.

Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman of California said Friday he reached a deal with liberals and conservative Democrats on his panel. Earlier this week, Democratic leaders had settled differences with the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats, but then liberals complained that too many concessions were made. They threatened to oppose the bill.

Waxman said the agreement restores some of the subsidies to help low- and middle-income Americans get health insurance.

He said he was confident he has the votes for his committee - the last of three - to pass the bill Friday before lawmakers leave Washington for a monthlong recess.