Deal ending federal shutdown won't extend expiring health subsidies what comes next - Local News Matters

A bipartisan legislative package is on track to resolve the ongoing government shutdown but fails to include provisions for expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits. Without congressional action, millions of Americans could see their health insurance premiums more than double next year. House Speaker Mike Johnson has yet to commit to a corresponding House vote, reducing the likelihood of extending these critical subsidies. Some Democrats have proposed one- to two-year stopgap measures to maintain the credits, but Republican leadership has resisted. The loss of these subsidies would disproportionately affect higher earners while also impacting lower earners, as many would face increased costs.

A KFF analysis reveals that the sticker shock from rising premiums has already begun affecting consumers shopping for next year’s coverage. About 75% of U. S. adults support the extension of the tax credits, including nearly half of Republicans, according to a recent poll. If lawmakers decide to reinstate the subsidies after they expire, it may complicate the adjustment process for federal and state marketplaces.