Senate committee rejects attempts to shackle reform’s prevention funds

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee today rejected several back-door attempts to disrupt funds allotted for healthcare reform, including funds designated for Alzheimer's education and the prevention of healthcare-associated infections (HAI).

Several congressmen hoped to affect healthcare reform activities and funds by introducing amendments to the 2013 Labor, Health and Human Services bill (LHHS), according to a news update posted by The Hill, an online congressional watchdog site.

One amendment, proposed by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), requested a chokehold on the Prevention and Public Health Fund. The PPH Fund, established by the Affordable Care Act, allocates millions for health programs that include combatting HAI, supporting Alzheimer’s education and outreach, championing workplace wellness, educating the elderly on disease management, and other initiatives.

Another amendment, offered by Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), called for a hiring freeze on employees dedicated to healthcare reform.

Both proposals failed 16-14, with votes falling strongly along party lines.