A Fresh Take on Health Care: Bipartisan Plan to Extend ACA Tax Credits

In a move that could impact millions, a group of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have joined forces to extend key Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions. The plan, led by Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), aims to prevent a sharp increase in health insurance premiums by prolonging enhanced premium tax credits (ePTCs) and extending the open enrollment period. The proposal has gained support from 35 House members, showing a rare display of bipartisanship in today's political climate. The plan focuses on helping those earning less than 600% of the federal poverty level, making health insurance more affordable for many Americans. Kiggans and Gottheimer have been vocal about their frustration with the lack of a comprehensive health care plan from leadership. They've taken matters into their own hands, crafting a proposal they believe addresses immediate concerns while leaving room for future reforms. However, the plan's success is not guaranteed. With Republicans controlling both the House and Senate, it remains to be seen how much support the proposal will receive. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise has indicated that the bipartisan framework is not currently part of the Republican's health care package. Kiggans remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan support for the plan's success. She also highlighted the need for significant reforms to the ACA, suggesting measures like Sen. Bill Cassidy's Health Savings Account proposal, but only after extending the tax credits. The plan also includes a phase-out of the tax credits, starting with those earning between 600% and 1, 000% of the federal poverty level. Kiggans argued that these credits, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, should not be abruptly phased out without alternative solutions in place. With open enrollment notices already showing significant premium increases for 2026, the pressure is on for Congress to act. The proposal's fate hangs in the balance, but one thing is clear: the need for affordable health care is not going away.