House Democratic leaders sign health care bill, send it to Obama for his signature

Dem leaders sign health bill, send it to Obama

WASHINGTON — House Democratic leaders have signed the massive health care overhaul bill, a formality before the bill is signed by President Barack Obama.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and the committee chairmen signed the bill Monday, an official act before Obama’s signature makes it the law of the land. The House voted for the measure 219-212 late Sunday night.

Pelosi said Sunday night the House made history and added: “It’s on a par with passing Social Security and Medicare.”

The congressional signing is a common step in the process, but with this uncommon bill, the leaders invited the media to watch.

The president planned to sign the measure on Tuesday.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Democratic leaders have signed the massive health care overhaul bill, a formality before the bill is signed by President Barack Obama.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and the committee chairmen signed the bill Monday, an official act before Obama’s signature makes it the law of the land. The House voted for the measure 219-212 late Sunday night.

Pelosi said Sunday night the House made history and added: “It’s on a par with passing Social Security and Medicare.”

The congressional signing is a common step in the process, but with this uncommon bill, the leaders invited the media to watch.

The president planned to sign the measure on Tuesday.