Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin says she will oppose the health care reform bill expected to be considered this weekend in the House.

The South Dakota Democrat says the plan falls short of her goals for health care reform and could threaten existing access to health care for many South Dakotans. Herseth Sandlin says she's also concerned it doesn't do enough to bring down the federal deficit and could affect future health care for seniors.

The House could begin consideration this weekend of the 10-year, $1.2 trillion legislation that would extend health coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans and put tough new restrictions on insurance companies.

Herseth Sandlin says she is hopeful the bill can be improved by House and Senate negotiators.