This is pretty standard operating procedure. The Senate will incorporate the House bill into their version and the Senate and House leaders will compile a final version in conference --- so everyone can come in off the ledge. ^-^
Yes, that's correct. That's how it generally works with big legislation, like ERISA. Each chamber writes its own bill, and if the Senate can pass its version then the two bills are reconciled in Committee. I'm eager to see what the Senate comes up with. The House gets credit for getting the ball rolling. Let's show that a center-right coalition can govern.
RIV, thanks for being the adult in the room (you too, Emjay).
I'm pleased as can be that this bill passed, and never thought for a moment that this would be the final word. It will be improved in the Senate, but does a lot of good so far - no individual mandate, no employer mandate, a ticket for innovation at the state level, and the first-ever takedown of an entitlement program (converting an open-ended funding commitment to renewable block grants.)