White House, Congress to tout benefits of reform law in home districts

The White House on Tuesday pledged to work in lockstep with House Democrats as they return to their home districts and begin to relay the many timelines, new programs and benefits included in the massive health reform law.

Nancy-Ann DeParle, the White House's chief health reform deputy, reassured lawmakers during a closed-door presentation last night that the administration would help them explain the finer points of the law. DeParle and other administration officials ran through a list of the more immediate changes under the new law, including health insurance expansions and tax credits fro small businesses.

“They're certainly focused on both implementation and doing that well, and in communicating with Americans about the benefits they will see,” said Allyson Schwartz (D-Pa.), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.

Schwartz said many lawmakers have already begun to field questions from constituents, and many more are expected when members return home during the summer weeks in preparation for the November elections.

Rep. Dale Kildee (D-Mich.) said he wants to see a joint effort between the White House and members of Congress as the new law begins to rollout.

“The No. 1 spokesman for this lives at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, and he can do a great job of it,” Kildee said.

Even lawmakers who voted against the reform package said they would help smooth the transition many people face as the U.S. healthcare system begins to transform.

“I'll make sure people are aware of things that are available,” said Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-Ill.). “I've always said that there are some good things in the bill and I want to make sure that people are able to take advantage of those.”