If Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) had his way, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program would end and federal employees would be forced to purchase insurance through the new state-based health exchanges that are a centerpiece of the health reform bill.

The ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee quietly offered the amendment that would boot all federal employees, including members of Congress, as well as federal retirees from their current health insurance plans beginning in 2013. For now, it appears that feds have dodged a bullet as the amendment was modified to eliminate the word “require” and replace it with language that says they “may” purchase on the exchange.

According to Grassley, the purpose behind the amendment was not to punish feds, but “to require that elected officials and federal employees purchase insurance in the same manner proposed in the [bill] for private citizens.” Opponents believe the proposed amendment was simply a political move intended to damage the overall bill’s chance of passage.

On the other end of the political spectrum, an amendment sponsored by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) would not only continue FEHB but also open it up to members of the general public who meet certain qualifications. Union leaders warn that this is a bad idea too because it would likely add riskier individuals to the same pool as federal employees and result in increased premiums for all.

These are just two of more than 500 amendments offered on the already massive bill (pdf) and another reminder that even those who believe they have the most secure guaranteed health insurance need to pay attention to the debate currently going on in Congress and stay involved. OhMyGov! will continue to monitor and alert you the latest news.

Also Interesting:

[+] What benefits are available for same-sex partners of federal employees?

[+] In Case You Missed It: OPM proposes new sick leave policy

[+] Can my supervisor ask personal questions about my sick leave?