1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern about the looming crisis in healthcare affordability and to urge immediate action to prevent devastating increases in Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums. The potential expiration of enhanced subsidies at the end of this year, coupled with rising healthcare costs, is set to create a perfect storm that could price millions of Americans out of health insurance. Insurers are already projecting an average premium hike of 26% for next year. This is not just a statistic – it represents real hardship for families like mine. Without intervention, many of us will face impossible choices between maintaining health coverage and meeting other basic needs. The enhanced subsidies have been a lifeline, making ACA coverage truly affordable for many. Their expiration would disproportionately impact those just above the poverty level and older adults, groups that are already vulnerable to healthcare access issues. Some individuals are even considering drastic measures like forgoing marriage or dropping coverage entirely – choices no one should have to make in a country as prosperous as ours. This is not just a matter of individual hardship; it's a public health issue that affects our entire community. When people lose access to regular healthcare, it leads to poorer health outcomes and higher costs for everyone in the long run. I urge you to break the current political stalemate and take immediate action to extend the enhanced subsidies. Furthermore, I ask that you work towards comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of rising healthcare costs. Time is of the essence – we need action before the end of the year to prevent this crisis. Your leadership on this issue is crucial. Please don't let politics stand in the way of protecting your constituents' access to affordable healthcare. Our health and financial stability depend on your swift action.