Senate Democrats facing numerous votes on the path to healthcare reform

The long road ahead Today’s procedural vote is only the first of many that Senate Democrats will have to win in coming months if they are to send President Obama a healthcare bill. CLOTURE ON MOTION TO PROCEED Required to end a Republican filibuster and begin debate on the healthcare legislation When expected: Today Votes required: 60 AMENDMENTS Once debate begins, lawmakers from both parties will be allowed to offer amendments When expected: Starting Nov. 30 through Christmas or beyond Votes required: Subject to negotiation, with 60 likely for more contentious amendments CLOTURE TO END DEBATE ON THE BILL Required to end a Republican filibuster and move to a vote on the bill When expected: Just before Christmas, though possibly later Votes required: 60 ADOPTION OF THE BILL Would send the Senate bill to a conference committee, where it would be reconciled with the House healthcare bill that passed two weeks ago When expected: Just before Christmas, though possibly later Votes required: 51 CLOTURE TO END DEBATE ON CONFERENCE REPORT Would end GOP filibuster of the conference report that combines the House and Senate healthcare bills When expected: Sometime in January Votes required: 60 FINAL PASSAGE Assuming House approval, would send the legislation to President Obama for his signature When expected: Sometime in January Votes required: 51 Source: Times research