The two most powerful Democrats in the Vermont Legislature have different approaches to health care reform. Incoming House Speaker Gaye Symington intends to appoint a special committee that will devote itself to health finance issues. She says her ultimate goal is making sure all Vermonters have access to health care.
Senate President Pro Tempore Peter Welch says he shares that goal but he worries about promising too much. He points out that the Legislature’s options are limited by federal regulations. So he says he believes the Senate will try to reduce health care costs instead of a program as ambitious as what Symington envisions.
Still, the two say they can work well together and find solutions.