The headline pretty much says everything you need to know. Senate Republicans, led by Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) had been threatening to require that the entire 2000-plus page health care bill be read aloud on the Senate floor once it overcomes its first major procedural hurdle. Now, I’ve confirmed that the Republicans have agreed to back off this plan in exchange for Democrats allowing a full-day’s debate on Saturday, before the scheduled evening vote.
Also, and importantly, as part of a unanimous consent agreement, the Saturday vote will serve as the motion to proceed itself. If there are 60 votes on Saturday, the bill will be on the floor, and debate can begin.
Happy Saturday!