A Fresh Take on Health Care: Bipartisan Plan to Extend ACA Tax Credits

In a move that could impact millions, a group of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have joined forces to extend key Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions.

The Plan

• Leaders: Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ)
• Aims:
• Prevent sharp increase in health insurance premiums
• Prolong enhanced premium tax credits (ePTCs)
• Extend the open enrollment period

The proposal has gained support from 35 House members, showing a rare display of bipartisanship.

Focus and Impact

• Target Group: Those earning less than 600% of the federal poverty level
• Goal: Make health insurance more affordable for many Americans

Challenges and Optimism

• Uncertainty: Success not guaranteed, with Republicans controlling both the House and Senate
• House Majority Leader Steve Scalise: Indicates the bipartisan framework is not currently part of the Republican's health care package
• Kiggans' Stance: Emphasizes the importance of bipartisan support and the need for significant reforms to the ACA

Key Provisions

• Phase-out of Tax Credits: Starting with those earning between 600% and 1,000% of the federal poverty level
• Argument: Credits introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic should not be abruptly phased out without alternative solutions

Urgency

With open enrollment notices already showing significant premium increases for 2026, the pressure is on for Congress to act. The proposal's fate hangs in the balance, but the need for affordable health care is clear.