Two key votes relating to the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act occurred today in the U.S. Senate.
With a 98-to-0 vote, senators approved an amendment from Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) that would require surplus funds from CLASS to remain in the program.
Right after that vote, senators voted 51 to 47 to withdraw an amendment from Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) that would have stripped the bill of the CLASS Act provision.
Opponents, who needed 60 votes to pass the amendment, allege that the CLASS plan would add another unaffordable program on to a government already in over its head with debt.
According to the AP, Thune said that the CLASS plan would lock in future generations to “deficits and debts as far as the eye can see.”
However, Sen. Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) told the Senate that the CLASS Act is “a very creative idea of using individuals’ money to contribute to their own long-term financial security if they’re faced with disabilities.” Dodd added, “It is a solid program that can make a huge difference for millions of Americans, allowing them to lead independent lives with dignity.”
Stay tuned for more updates.
