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By RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR Associated Press Writer Washington (AP) The AARP has officially endorsed the House Democratic health care bill, a major boost for the legislation two days before a historic vote.

AARP Senior Policy Adviser John Rother said Thursday that the 40-million strong organization backs the House bill. He said the measure closes the coverage gap in Medicare prescription benefits, puts strict limits on what health insurers can charge older workers too young for Medicare and creates a voluntary, long-term care insurance program.

Officials with the seniors lobby said the organization lost 150,000 members since July 1 because of the group's support for health overhaul. But in that time, it also registered 2.7 million new members and renewals. Officials said they were confident their members would see the bill's benefits.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-05-09 1038CST | save this article / add to your favorites list