WASHINGTON — The Republican-controlled House has voted along party lines to repeal a Medicare cost-control board that is part of President Barack Obama's healthcare overhaul law.
The 223-181 vote sets up what Republicans hope to turn into a potent election-year issue as both parties compete for the votes of seniors.
The Independent Payment Advisory Board has yet to be appointed, let alone propose any cuts. It was created to keep Medicare costs from zooming out of control by forcing cuts on service providers.
Republicans have branded the board as a rationing agency, and some GOP lawmakers say the issue is the successor to the debunked accusation that Obama's law provided for "death panels."
Democrats say they welcome the debate.
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