WASHINGTON, DC (KELO.COM) South Dakota's Kristi Noem, on the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, was part of legislative history in the wee hours of Thursday morning.
After 18 hours of discussion, the Republican-controlled Committee took the first vote to approve part of the complicated replacement package for Obamacare.
"It eliminates both the individual and employer mandate penalties. It dismantles the Obamacare taxes that were included in that legislation years ago."
Noem doesn't seem to be concerned that she voted to approve the changes without first knowing from the Congressional Budget Office what they might cost taxpayers. She says the CBO estimates will be out in the next few days. She says it's "typical" for committees to vote in advance of CBO scoring.
A big cost concerning some conservative Republicans is the tax credits to buy health insurance that would replace the subsidies in Obamacare. Noem says the credits will give those qualified more options.
"The subsidies went to insurance companies before. These tax credits go to the individuals so they can take that tax credit and go out on the market and find a plan that works best for them and their family,"
The South Dakota Democratic Party predictably blasted Noem for her vote, claiming it would result in thousands of South Dakotans losing insurance coverage or paying more for it.
The House Ways and Means vote is the first step in a long, controversial process to repeal and replace Obamacare, a centerpiece of former President Obama's legacy, but an anathema to most Republicans.