Insurance rates on WA health care exchange set to surge

Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, criticized the anticipated 21% rise in health insurance premiums for individual plans on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, linking it to Republican policies and the Trump administration's actions. This increase follows a previous 10. 7% rise and could significantly impact low-income Americans facing cuts to Medicaid and the expiration of federal tax credits. Jeffries indicated he may risk a government shutdown to ensure health care protections for Americans, stating, "We will not support a partisan Republican spending bill that continues to gut the health care of the American people. " Nearly 300,000 residents depend on the exchange, with three-quarters qualifying for federal premium tax credits that average $1,330 in savings.

Without action, approximately 80,000 people could forgo coverage once these subsidies expire. Schumer and Jeffries united in their demands for health care provisions in any funding agreement. Local health officials warn that the loss of these subsidies could strain hospital finances due to increased uncompensated care. The uninsured rate in Washington has dropped significantly, making the potential reversal of gains in health coverage particularly concerning.