Gianforte also praised the bill.

“Santa came early for hardworking Montanans with tax reform that will let them keep more of what they earn,” Gianforte said. “Montanans of all income levels will see their taxes cut. These tax cuts keep $800 million in the hands of Montanans, not sent 2,000 miles to the federal government’s coffers.”

Tester criticized the bill, saying it will add more than $1 trillion to the national debt and provides 83 percent of its cuts to the top 1 percent of wage-earners.

“Those of you who vote yes on this bill will do so at the expense of our kids and grandkids,” Tester said. “They will be paying this tab long after we are gone. This bill will limit their opportunities and cap their potential.”

Tester said the bill's elimination of fines for those who don't get health insurance will raise premiums by 10 percent next year for those with coverage. Other changes, he said, will force cuts as high as $25 billion to Medicare.

"It will become more expensive to see your doctor. It will be harder for rural hospitals and clinics to keep their doors open. And more folks will end up in the emergency room. They will be sicker and their treatment will be more expensive and the rest of us will be forced to pay for it.”

Love 2 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1