Community Corner

The state legislature approved a measure that bucks any effort by President Barack Obama and Congress to carry out a national health care overhaul in individual states.

President Obama’s health reform plan is a mixed bag, but it may be the only program passed.

President Obama met with insurance executives and selected House Democrats, as party leaders struggled to figure out whether they can meet his timetable.

The president told Congressional leaders that while he was open to addressing some Republican concerns, he would press ahead with the health care overhaul.

Even Democratic House members worried about re-election will come through on a health vote, their leader said on Sunday.

From the seating arrangements to the camera positions and buffet lunch — not to mention the talking points — Thursday’s health care session has been carefully orchestrated.

President Obama’s legislative blueprint does address some of the concerns of House leaders who are demanding more help for the middle class.

The White House plans to use a procedure, known as budget reconciliation, that would let Democrats advance a health care bill with a simple majority rather than a 60-vote supermajority.

Anthem Blue Cross, a California health insurance company, said that increases of up to 39 percent in premiums were driven by rising health care costs.

Republicans this month will bring President Obama a set of ideas and a more modest health care plan.