WASHINGTON -- A key Democratic senator says he believes Democrats are close to the 60 votes they need to advance a healthcare bill that includes a new program for government-backed health insurance.
Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York says he thinks a public option plan will be in the Senate bill.
Schumer says he thinks it will be a middle-ground proposal that allows states to opt out of participation. The opt-out proposal, according to Schumer, draws support from many liberal and moderate senators and less opposition from others.
Schumer says that a government-backed insurance plan would remain only an option for consumers looking for alternatives to private insurance.
Schumer spoke Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press."
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