Hoyer says wealthy surtax "one option" on healtcare

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said on Tuesday that imposing a surtax on the wealthy is "one option" to pay for a broad overhaul of U.S. healthcare that aims to provide medical coverage for the uninsured.

Lawmakers said the proposed legislation to be introduced later on Tuesday would include a surtax on those earning more than $350,000 that gradually increases for wealthier people. Those making more $1 million would pay a 3 percent surtax, lawmakers have said. The surtax would go into effect in 2011, with another 1 percent hike possible in 2013 if proposed cost savings fail to materialize. Some senators have expressed concerns about the surtax proposed in the House.

(Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Sandra Maler)