Wednesday's Headlines: Health Bill Marches Ahead; Personal Incomes Rise

HEALTH REFORM -- December 23, 2009 at 9:36 AM EDT

Wednesday's Headlines: Health Bill Marches Ahead; Personal Incomes Rise

Lawmakers continue to work toward passage of a bill to reform the nation's health care system with one more procedural hurdle slated for Wednesday, before a final vote now planned for Christmas Eve morning.

The third procedural vote comes Wednesday afternoon in the Senate, when Democrats will have to cast another 60 votes to cut off debate on the legislation.

Politico reports that House Democrats are already steeling themselves for a tough fight, as two versions of the bill need to be reconciled for final passage to President Barack Obama's desk. Among the issues to be hammered out: The House bill contains a public insurance option; the Senate bill does not.

Over at NPR, there's a closer look at Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's role as dealmaker in the health care political drama. And the Wall Street Journal looks at how businesses are already bracing for the additional costs some new health care provisions may bring.

On Wednesday's NewsHour, Jim Lehrer will talk to President Obama about health care reform and his first year in office. Check back with the Rundown for excerpts and more from the conversation.

The Commerce Department said Wednesday that personal incomes rose in November at the fastest pace in six months, while spending posted a second straight increase, raising hopes that the economy is emerging from its recession.

The figures show personal incomes were up 0.4 percent in November, helped by a $16.1 billion increase in wages and salaries, reflecting the drop in unemployment that occurred last month.

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