MINNEAPOLIS, July 11, 2008—President Bush renewed a vow Thursday to veto HR 6331, the bill passed by the Senate Wednesday that averts Medicare cuts to physicians. 

The threat came from the White House even as Congressional leaders predicted that enough Republicans would side with Democrats to ensure that the bill, which affects 44 million seniors and an additional 9 million military personnel, will be veto-proof.

If President Bush does not reconsider a veto, "rest assured that we will make very sure that this bill becomes law through a veto override," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) told the Los Angeles Times.

The American Medical Association repeated its insistence said seniors and military families in rural areas would be most affected by the cut in reimbursements.

Tricare, the military health care system, bases its reimbursement rates on Medicare. Military groups fear that fewer doctors will be willing to treat active and retired military personnel and their families should Bush veto the bil.

"Taking choices away from seniors in order to pay for the reimbursement for physicians is the wrong way to pass this bill," said White House spokesman Tony Fratto.

"Does the president still intend to veto this bill?" Fratto asked. "The answer is yes."

Los Angeles Times news article