Larger role in health care reform sought by Blue Dog Coalition

KENTUCKY: Blue Dog Coalition wants larger role in health care reform

The Blue Dog Coalition, a group of fiscally conservative House Democrats who largely hail from Southern and Midwestern states, could play a pivotal role in the passage of the Obama administration's health care policies.

However, the group, which includes Kentucky Rep. Ben Chandler of Versailles, complains that liberal committee chairmen are shutting them out of the legislation-crafting process.

"The Blue Dogs want to see health care reform happen, and we're looking to be productive partners in the debate," said Rep. Mike Ross, D-Ark., who heads the coalition's task force on health care. "We have had a number of meetings with the committee chairmen and other members of leadership, and we will continue to offer our input as legislation makes its way through the House."

Also in the South:

ALABAMA: State Democrats still searching for gubernatorial candidates

ARKANSAS: October 29 set for first day of lottery sales

FLORIDA: FBI begins investigation of former House Speaker Sansom

GEORGIA: New law will allow electronic testimony

LOUISIANA: Legislative session begins winding down, with much left to do

MISSISSIPPI: Budget deal should be quick, says House Speaker

NORTH CAROLINA: Despite lottery, state has massive budget problems

SOUTH CAROLINA: Unemployment rate reaches 12.1%

TENNESSEE: State's business recruitment pays off even in recession

VIRGINIA: New chairman of state GOP probes Gov. Kaine's travel

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