Gov't insurance plan wouldn't draw the masses

WASHINGTON (AP) - Congressional budget umpires say a government health insurance plan that's been a rallying cry for Democrats would not be a big draw with the public.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated Thursday that only about 6 million people would sign up and that premiums for the government plan could be higher than for private coverage. The CBO says sicker people with higher costs probably would be attracted to the government plan, part of the health care bill unveiled by House Democrats.

By comparison, 162 million people would remain covered through employer plans. Also, most people buying their own plans would select private coverage.