January 30th, 2009

The Senate passed legislation Thursday that would provide federal health benefits to millions of children, setting the stage for President Obama to notch an early victory on a major priority.

The chamber voted 66-32 to expand the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).

The House passed similar legislation two weeks ago. Though the chambers will have to reconcile some differences between their respective versions of the measure, congressional Democratic leaders are eager to get the bill on to Obama’s desk.

Read more from The Hill.