As the end of the year approaches, lawmakers in Washington, D.C., face a critical deadline regarding health care costs for millions of Americans. The expiration of COVID-19 era subsidies under the Affordable Care Act is set for December 31, 2023, prompting urgent discussions among representatives. Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley and Democratic Rep. Sam Liccardo, both from California, have introduced the “Fix It Act,” aiming to extend these vital subsidies for an additional two years.
In an interview, Kiley emphasized the significance of this extension for the approximately 22 million Americans who rely on these subsidies. He stated, “On average, people’s health care premiums will double,” highlighting the impact on independent contractors, small business owners, employees, and retirees who are not yet eligible for Medicare. Kiley expressed his commitment to preventing inaction on this pressing issue.
Before the holiday season, President Donald Trump was reported to be considering a plan to address the health care cost crisis. Although he has shown some reluctance towards extending the credits, Kiley noted that the White House’s considerations aligned closely with the proposals from his and Liccardo’s initiative. “We do need to act with a sense of urgency here,” Kiley remarked, acknowledging that the proposed extension would not fully resolve the broader health care affordability crisis.
When asked about support for the Fix It Act among fellow Republicans, Kiley indicated that he has received “quite a bit” of backing. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson has not yet indicated when a vote on the measure might occur. Kiley anticipates that the Senate could vote on some form of extension by December 12, 2023. He urged the Speaker to recognize the urgency of this matter, emphasizing its importance to both lawmakers and the American public.
As discussions continue, the potential implications of this legislation extend beyond the immediate future. If not addressed, the expiration of the subsidies could significantly affect millions, further complicating the ongoing debate about health care affordability in the United States.
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