It’s an informational hearing – that means lawmakers won’t be voting on the Governor’s plan.  But it is a rare opportunity for them to publicly debate its merits.  Despite speculation that healthcare reform is on its last legs, Schwarzenegger Press Secretary Aaron McLear says this shows progress:

“The speaker has assured the Governor that these will be real, constructive, productive hearings on healthcare reform.”

The Governor’s plan includes a mandate that all Californians have health insurance.  In an audio statement released by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez’s office, the Democrat said the Governor’s plan shouldn’t include such a mandate unless it makes coverage more affordable.  They also disagree about how much employers should contribute to health insurance.