Johanns seeks repeal of 1099 healthcare language on FAA bill

Johanns has pressed harder than any other senator to repeal the 1099 language, and has repeatedly said he would try to pass a repeal on any moving legislation. It is so far unclear if the FAA bill up in the Senate this week will be used as a vehicle for Johanns, or if the Senate might decide to pass it as a standalone measure.

Also Monday night, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) introduced S.A. 4, which would repeal the essential air service program (both amendments are provided here). McCain’s amendment is likely to be more controversial, as S. 223 would extend this program. The program subsidizes air service in communities that otherwise might have no air service at all.

The program costs about $200 million per year, and serves more than 100 communities across the country.