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Delay Tactics

Posted by: Kate Blocher on Dec 04, 2009

The health care bill has hit the Senate, and opponents of reform are planning to do everything in their power to stall the debate proceedings, and, if possible, grind them to a halt.

Debate began Monday with a handful of amendments offered up by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV). Although they were not controversial, they were immediately met with objections. This set the stage for the rest of the day and, probably, the rest of the week.

Opponents are not even pretending that they want to improve the legislation. Senator Judd Greg (R-NH) is currently circulating a document  that outlines the many ways Senate rules can be used to delay action and even bring proceedings to a standstill. Gregg says opponents of reform should be prepared to filibuster every motion, and it appears many are taking his advice.

Unfortunately, stalling the debate proceedings is not the worst tactic opponents have engaged in during this Senate battle. They are also proposing harmful amendments that, if passed, will weaken the health reform bill and ultimately be detrimental to the American people.

It's clear that challengers of reform are prepared to stop debate proceedings at all costs. If you feel opponents are delaying proceedings just for the sake of delay, and are ready for a real debate, let your voice be heard. Sign our petition and tell your Senator, "Don't filibuster my health care!"

We have gotten this far, we can't let a few procedural tactics stop us from passing true and meaningful health reform legislation.