“History is not merely what is printed in textbooks,” Vice President Joe Biden said during today’s signing at the White House. “It doesn’t begin or end with the stroke of a pen. History is made. History is made when men and women decide that there is a greater risk in accepting a situation that we cannot bear than in steeling our spine and embracing the promise of change. That’s when history is made.”
The bill will provide health coverage for over 30 million Americans and prevent insurance companies from dropping individuals who are sick, it will give small businesses tax credits to cover employees, and young adults will be able to stay on their parents insurance until their 27th birthday.
President Obama signed the bill on behalf of his mother, who died of cancer at 53 after being dropped by her health insurance company. “It is fitting that Congress passed this historic legislation this week,” President Obama said. “For as we mark the turning of spring, we also mark a new season in America. In a few moments, when I sign this bill, all of the overheated rhetoric over reform will finally confront the reality of reform.”
But some Republicans are hoping to challenge the historic legislation. Ten Republican attorney generals from Alabama, Nebraska, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah and Washington filed a lawsuit against the new health care reform bill. They will challenge the provision that will require Americans to purchase health care or face a fine. However, the Obama administration expects to win any lawsuits filed against the bill. –amir shaw
