Kenny Capps, a North Carolina father battling multiple myeloma, has struggled to afford health insurance due to rising costs, despite being ineligible for Medicaid. A breakthrough came four years ago when Democrats boosted Obamacare funding, allowing Capps to benefit from enhanced premium tax credits that capped his insurance premiums at 8.5% of his income, enabling him to continue vital treatment. However, this funding is set to expire at the end of 2025, and with a new Republican-led Congress, its future remains uncertain. While some GOP members are open to bipartisan solutions, party leaders appear reluctant to extend the funding, which could save the government tens of billions but would jeopardize coverage for approximately 5 million Americans.
In a bid to maintain pressure on lawmakers, a coalition named Keep Americans Covered has launched a seven-figure ad campaign advocating for the continuation of ACA funding. The campaign features stories like Jessica’s, a restaurant manager whose family relies on ACA tax credits for necessary healthcare.
Senator Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, expressed a desire for bipartisan collaboration on extending ACA tax credits, warning against purely partisan politics in a politically diverse state. Conversely, Senator Mike Rounds voiced skepticism about the ACA’s costs, arguing that the program has not financially sustained itself.
As Congress faces a time crunch, insurers are set to finalize rates for 2026 in September. The consequences of inaction could lead to significant premium hikes and coverage losses for millions during an election year, creating potential political ramifications for Republicans. Capps underscores the urgent need for a solution, stating that removing existing support would be devastating for countless individuals like him.
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