9/11 Health Bill Fails Senate Test Vote

Both senators from Wyoming voted against the 9/11 Health Care Bill in a test vote Thursday. The test vote failed 57-42 and was along party lines except for Majority Leader Harry Reid who voted against the bill so it could be reconsidered later.  The bill would provide $7.4 billion to September 11 survivors and first responders for health care treatment and compensation.  The bill passed the House in September and failed the test vote Thursday.  Many backers see this lame-duck session as the bills only chance to become legislation.

Wyoming Sen. Mike Enzi cited many issues he had with the bill.  He says lawmakers need to first find out about how current funding for survivors is being spent.  In addition he wants more details on a recent $625 million court settlement for surviviors and if it affects the bill.  Supporters of the bill had met with Enzi Tuesday to try and win his vote.