Governors Urge Congress to Extend Affordable Care Act's Enhanced Premium Tax Credits

Strategic Insights -

Governor Ned Lamont and 17 other governors from across the country have sent a letter to Congressional leaders, urging them to extend the Affordable Care Act's enhanced premium tax credits. The governors argue that these subsidies are crucial for millions of Americans, keeping health insurance within reach despite rising living costs. If the tax credits expire, premiums will increase by thousands of dollars for many families, leading to millions losing coverage and facing impossible choices between healthcare, rent, or groceries. The governors emphasize that the timing is urgent, as insurers are already setting 2026 rates, and extending the tax credits can provide stability for millions of families.

Key Takeaways:

  • The letter was signed by 18 governors, including Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, urging Congress to extend the Affordable Care Act's enhanced premium tax credits.
  • The governors argue that the subsidies are essential for millions of Americans, particularly hard-working families, older Americans not yet on Medicare, small business owners, and rural communities.
  • If the tax credits expire, premiums will rise by thousands of dollars for many families, leading to millions losing coverage and facing financial difficulties.
  • Insurers are already setting 2026 rates, making the timing of the extension imperative to lock in lower premiums and avoid sticker shock.
  • The governors emphasize that extending the tax credits is a non-partisan issue, focusing on protecting working people who are struggling to afford healthcare.
  • The letter argues that extending the tax credits is one of the simplest and most effective steps Congress can take to keep healthcare affordable and provide stability for millions of families.

Statistics:

  • 18 governors signed the letter to Congress, urging the extension of the Affordable Care Act's enhanced premium tax credits.
  • The governors estimate that millions of Americans will lose coverage and face financial difficulties if the tax credits expire.
  • Premiums are expected to increase by thousands of dollars if the tax credits expire, making it difficult for families to afford healthcare.

Sources:

  • [Letter from 18 Governors to Congressional leaders (September 15, 2025)]