Summary
Millions of Americans may face higher healthcare costs because subsidies, which help make insurance affordable, are set to end. This change could lead some people to lose their health coverage if the subsidies are not extended. Lawmakers are debating whether to extend these subsidies, especially as the government shutdown continues.
Key Facts
- Subsidies for health insurance bought through the Affordable Care Act marketplace are set to expire.
- Around 24 million Americans currently use these subsidies to lower their monthly insurance costs.
- Without the subsidies, insurance costs could rise by 114% on average, adding about $1,000 more per year.
- About seven million people might stop buying health insurance if the subsidies end.
- Lawmakers are divided, with Democrats wanting to extend the subsidies and some Republicans opposing them.
- The subsidies are a key part of the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare.
- The current debate is happening during a federal government shutdown, which affects various services.
