Energy and Commerce Committee Mark-Up Comes to a Close: No Self-Referral Amendment Offered
The House Energy and Commerce Committee marked up H.R. 3200, America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 late last week. The committee adjourned for recess on Friday (July 31) evening shortly after 9pm Eastern Time.
Although acknowledging that 66 amendments remained outstanding before the committee, Chairman Henry Waxman (D-Cal.) decided to close off further consideration of amendments. The committee then voted on and passed H.R. 3200 with all amendments considered to that point and decided to reconvene in September.
At that time (Sept.), all consensus amendments not addressed prior to the congressional recess and agreed to by the Chairman will be presented to the committee. Those amendments that are not part of the Chairman’s consensus agreement may be considered at that time. Finally, any new amendments agreed to by Chairman Waxman and Ranking Member Joe Barton (R-TX) may also be considered.
Representatives Anthony Weiner (D-NY) and Representative Bruce Braley (D-IA) planned to offer an amendment on physician self-referral to address the in-office ancillary services exemption. The amendment was not offered during the mark-up. It is unclear whether or not the amendment will be offered when the committee reconvenes in September.
The College will continue to work with congressional staff during the August congressional recess to clarify this issue and to pursue sensible evidence based on general medical imaging reimbursement policy.
