Deal struck to pass 9/11 workers' healthcare bill

Democrats struck an agreement Wednesday on a bill funding healthcare benefits for 9/11 first responders, clearing its way for passage by the end of the day.

Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) said he had reached an agreement with Democratic leaders that would let the legislation move forward without the procedural hurdles he had threatened.

“I’m pleased the sponsors of this bill agreed to lower costs dramatically, offset the bill, sunset key provisions and take steps to prevent fraud," Coburn said in a statement. "Every American recognizes the heroism of the 9/11 first responders, but it is not compassionate to help one group while robbing future generations of opportunity. I’m pleased this agreement strikes a fair balance and improves the bill the majority attempted to rush through at the last minute."

Coburn struck an accord with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) following a meeting between the three.

Specifically, it would cost $4.2 billion over the next 10 years — $1.5 billion of which would go to healthcare benefits, while $2.7 billion will go to compensation.

The revised bill could also close the Victims' Compensation Fund after five years, limit attorney fees and root out potential fraudulent claims.

Coburn had faced strong criticism by Democrats for having threatened to block the bill. (Because it hadn't been formally brought up for consideration, he didn't technically block it.)

House and Senate Democrats had worried that if they didn't finish the legislation today, on what appears to be the last day of the lame-duck Congress, then the legislation wouldn't clear Congress at all this year. 

Updated at 1:40 p.m.