Republicans Must Act Now To Stop Millions From Losing Health Care Coverage
Washington, DC – Democrats have sent a proposal to Republicans to include a one-year extension of the enhanced premium tax credits in a year-end bill. These tax credits, passed in the Inflation Reduction Act, lowered the cost of health care for millions of people purchasing coverage on their own but are set to expire at the end of 2025.
The Hill reported earlier this week Republicans had sent an offer as part of the steps towards a wider health care package. Today, Axios and the Washington Post reported Democrats’ counteroffer also includes extensions for expiring programs, such as community health center funding and telehealth for Medicare. According to actuarial firm, Oliver Wyman, 5 million Americans would become uninsured if the tax credits expired. Unless Congress acts now, costs will go up for millions of people, including small business owners, people living in high-cost rural areas, farmers, people with pre-existing conditions, older adults, and more.
In response, Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse issued the statement below:
“If Congress fails to act, premiums will skyrocket and millions will lose their health insurance. Health care will become out of reach for millions of Americans, leaving middle-class families to struggle and choose between seeing a doctor, keeping a roof over their heads, or groceries in the fridge. It is up to Republicans to come to the table and extend the Inflation Reduction Act’s enhanced premium tax credit so hardworking families don’t have to worry about going bankrupt over an injury or an illness. Democrats stand ready to extend the tax credits to ensure everyone has access to affordable health care. It’s time for Republicans to put the needs of working families ahead of the needs of Wall Street executives.”