Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV)

The House and Senate, which each passed fiscal year 2010 budget resolutions late last week, are planning to iron out the differences when they return to session April 20.

Both resolutions contain deficit-neutral reserve funds for future healthcare reform legislation. The House resolution, unlike the Senate’s version, includes instructions for budget reconciliation, which would fast-track healthcare reform legislation. Republicans failed to support either resolution. Providers have been pressing for the inclusion of long-term care in any kind of healthcare reform measure.

The White House issued a statement saying that the House vote is “another step toward rebuilding our struggling economy.” The Senate budget reportedly differs from Obama’s in that it contains fewer specifics on how to fund healthcare reform, among other initiatives. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said the Senate’s budget reflects the fundamental priorities proposed by Obama. A two-week congressional recess begins today.