Week ahead: The wait is (almost) over

{mosads}Expect a flood of off-the-Hill events to follow on the decision, too. None have been scheduled or publicized, however, because the ruling date is unknown.

A ruling in the highly charged case this week could make for some awkward social situations outside the Capitol. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) said he would make time in the chamber’s schedule for the White House-Congress picnic and a congressional baseball game. Because the picnic is scheduled for Wednesday night, a Monday ruling by the court could cast a shadow there.

Apart from healthcare reform, a Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) appropriations bill could see action on the House floor.

In the Senate, the Veterans Affairs Committee will hold a hearing on Wednesday on health and benefits legislation.

On Thursday, the American College of Rheumatology will host a briefing on legislation to limit cost-sharing requirements for “specialty medications.” Rep. David McKinley (R-W.Va.) and Lois Capps (D-Calif.) will speak.