Hoyer told reporters Tuesday that Reid's move doesn't really change the calculus in the House, where Democratic leaders already planned to write a public insurance option into their bill.

But he indicated it could improve the chances of a public insurance option ending up in final legislation sent to the president.

Hoyer said the development in the Senate also could affect decisions by some House members who don't want to vote for a provision that could only pass the House but not the Senate.

House leaders hope to release their bill this week, Hoyer said.