1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to take immediate action to extend the enhanced tax credits for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace health insurance premiums. These credits, set to expire at the end of this year, are crucial for maintaining affordable healthcare access for millions of Americans, including many in our district. Since 2021, these enhanced credits have made ACA plans significantly more affordable for approximately 24 million people who don't receive health insurance through their jobs or public programs like Medicare or Medicaid. The potential consequences of allowing these credits to expire are severe and far-reaching. According to a recent analysis by KFF, if these enhanced tax credits are not extended, premium payments for ACA enrollees will skyrocket by an average of 114%. This dramatic increase would place an enormous financial burden on families already struggling with rising costs in other areas of their lives. Furthermore, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the expiration of these credits could result in 4 million Americans losing their health insurance coverage altogether. While I understand concerns about government spending, it's crucial to consider the long-term costs of a less healthy population. The CBO estimates that extending this policy would cost $350 billion over 10 years, but this investment in our nation's health could prevent much higher healthcare and societal costs down the line. The recent government shutdown over this issue demonstrates how critical this matter is. I implore you to prioritize the health and financial security of your constituents by supporting the extension of these enhanced premium tax credits. This is not just a matter of politics; it's about ensuring that hardworking Americans can access the healthcare they need without facing financial ruin. Time is of the essence. With the credits set to expire at the end of the year, we need decisive action now to prevent a healthcare crisis. Please work across the aisle to find a solution that maintains these vital tax credits and protects the health of our communities. The well-being of millions of Americans, including many in our district, depends on your leadership in this crucial moment.