A fiercely debated provision that would have expanded healthcare coverage for construction workers has been jettisoned out of the final reform bill.

But that will only sideline the lobbying battle between unions and business associations on the measure. After Congress finishes up the healthcare legislation, labor leaders have promised to push for it again, which is likely to draw opposition from several trade groups representing the construction industry.

At stake is a provision, backed by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), that was added to the Senate version of the healthcare reform bill. The measure would have required construction companies with annual payrolls valued at more than $250,000 and more than five employees to provide healthcare insurance to their workers.

According to a union official, the provision was removed last week because it........read more