Reid says will use "reconciliation" on healthcare

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid formally notified Republicans on Thursday that he will attempt to pass the final changes to a healthcare overhaul through the budget process of reconciliation.

The process, used in the past by Republicans, requires only a simple majority in the 100-member Senate, bypassing the need for 60 votes to overcome procedural hurdles.

"We plan to use the regular budget reconciliation process that the Republican caucus has used many times," Reid said in his letter. "Keep in mind that reconciliation will not exclude Republicans from the legislative process."