House Republicans Urge Speaker Johnson to Address Expiring ACA Tax Credits Post-Shutdown

A coalition of House Republicans, led by Reps. Jeff Van Drew and Jen Kiggans, urged Speaker Mike Johnson to prioritize extending enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits once the government shutdown ends, warning that millions of Americans face steep premium hikes without the extension. The lawmakers emphasized that while reopening the government is the immediate priority, addressing the looming expiration of these subsidies, set for the end of 2025, is critical to avoid a healthcare affordability crisis. They rejected Democratic efforts to tie the tax credit extension to the government funding debate, advocating instead for a conservative approach that protects working families. The letter highlighted that these enhanced subsidies, initially expanded during the pandemic, are set to revert to lower levels, causing insurers to raise premiums in anticipation. The group also noted that the current crisis stems from Democratic policies, but Republicans now have the opportunity and responsibility to address it responsibly. This bipartisan concern within the GOP underscores growing anxiety over the lack of a clear plan from leadership to extend these vital healthcare subsidies ahead of the midterm elections.