James M. Jeffords: “This has been, to me, one of the more important days of this session. I believe that is true because of the introduction…”

“This has been, to me, one of the more important days of this session. I believe that is true because of the introduction earlier by Senator Lott of the Republican health care bill. First, I commend the majority leader for the dexterous way in which he handled both allowing the members of a committee, a standing committee, to work, and then to join them with a leadership task force, formed by the majority leader, to put together a bill which could be backed by all Members of the Republican side. That was no easy task, but I am happy to say that by working together I think we have provided, for the Senate's review, an outstanding piece of legislation. I also want to begin by commending Senator Nickles and all the Members who participated in putting this legislation together on the task force, and in my committee. I think it is solid legislation that will result in a greatly improved health care system for Americans. I am proud to be a cosponsor of the Patients' Bill of Rights.”