Lawmakers in Washington, D.C., are racing against time to address escalating health care costs for millions of Americans before the end of the year. The impending expiration of COVID-19 era Affordable Care Act credits, which have been vital in alleviating health care expenses, is at the forefront of discussions. The situation intensified following a historic government shutdown, underscoring the urgency for a resolution.
To tackle this pressing issue, Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley and Democratic Rep. Sam Liccardo, both from California, have introduced the “Fix It Act.” This proposal aims to extend health care subsidies for an additional two years, a move Kiley believes is essential for approximately 22 million Americans. In a recent interview, Kiley highlighted the potential impact of the subsidy expiration, stating, “On average, people’s healthcare premiums will double.”
The proposed legislation is particularly crucial for independent contractors, small business owners, employees, and retirees who are not yet eligible for Medicare. Kiley emphasized that he is committed to finding solutions rather than remaining inactive in the face of this crisis.
In recent developments, President Donald Trump has shown hesitance regarding the extension of these credits, despite reportedly considering a plan similar to Kiley and Liccardo’s proposal prior to the holiday. Kiley expressed the need for urgent action, stating, “We do need to act with a sense of urgency here.” He cautioned that while the Fix It Act is a step in the right direction, it does not fully address the broader health care affordability crisis facing the nation.
When queried about the support for the proposal among fellow Republicans, Kiley reported a favorable response, indicating he is receiving “quite a bit” of backing. Despite this, House Speaker Mike Johnson has yet to announce when a vote on the measure might occur. Kiley anticipates that the Senate could vote on some form of an extension by December 12, 2023.
Kiley’s hopes rest on the idea that Speaker Johnson will recognize the significance of this issue for both lawmakers and the American public. “Hopefully the Speaker will understand this is a priority for the members and a priority for the American people,” he stated.
As the deadline approaches, the stakes continue to rise for millions who rely on these subsidies to maintain affordable health care. The outcome of this legislative effort will not only affect financial stability for many households but will also shape the ongoing conversation around health care reform in the United States.
