As the year draws to a close, legislators in Washington, D.C., are racing against time to address the escalating health care costs that affect millions of Americans. The expiration of COVID-19 era subsidies under the Affordable Care Act is at the center of this urgent discussion, particularly as these financial supports are set to end on December 31, 2023. The potential lapse in these subsidies has raised concerns among lawmakers and constituents alike, prompting a renewed push for a legislative solution.
Proposed Legislation to Address Health Care Costs
California Representatives Kevin Kiley and Sam Liccardo have introduced a bipartisan initiative known as the “Fix It Act.” This proposal seeks to extend the current health care subsidies for an additional two years, a measure that Kiley argues is essential for approximately 22 million Americans. In a recent interview, he emphasized the potential impact of the subsidy expiration: “On average, people’s healthcare premiums will double. Independent contractors, small business owners, small business employees, and retirees not yet eligible for Medicare will be the people most affected,” Kiley stated.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the potential consequences for those reliant on these subsidies. As Congress navigates the complexities of health care reform, Kiley expressed his commitment to finding solutions rather than remaining passive. “I’m not willing to just do nothing,” he remarked.
Challenges and Support in Congress
Despite the challenges of garnering support for the proposal, Kiley indicated that he has received “quite a bit” of backing from fellow Republicans. House Speaker Mike Johnson has not yet provided a timeline for when a vote on the measure might occur. Kiley anticipates that the Senate may address some form of extension by December 12, 2023. “Hopefully the Speaker will understand this is a priority for the members and a priority for the American people,” he noted.
Prior to the holiday season, former President Donald Trump reportedly contemplated a plan related to the health care issue. While he expressed reluctance about extending the credits, Kiley pointed out that the White House’s considerations were similar to the Fix It Act. This overlap suggests a potential avenue for bipartisan cooperation, though the specifics remain to be seen.
Kiley acknowledged the broader context of the health care affordability crisis, emphasizing that while the Fix It Act may not fully resolve systemic issues, it is an important step forward. “We do need to act with a sense of urgency here,” he concluded, indicating his recognition of the multifaceted challenges that lie ahead for Congress.
For ongoing updates on this critical issue, California Politics 360 will continue to provide in-depth coverage, with insights from political experts and analysis of developments in health care policy.
