Republican and Democratic Congress Members Seek ACA Subsidy Extension

Over a dozen Republican members of Congress have joined forces with Democrats by signing a letter advocating for the continuation of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

The letter, which brings together both parties, is directed at bipartisan leaders in both chambers and is titled “Common Ground 2025: A Bipartisan Health Care Framework.” It suggests extending savings on health insurance premiums for Americans.

Beginning with an appeal to leaders such as Majority Leader Thune and Minority Leader Schumer, the letter states, “Please see the attached Common Ground 2025: Bipartisan Health Care Framework, our proposal that outlines extended health insurance premium savings for American families.”

Furthermore, the letter articulates the need for a one-year enhancement of the premium tax credit (ePTC) coupled with ongoing health insurance premium savings for families in what would be the second year.

It also urged swift action, requesting that leaders in both chambers vote on a bill to decrease health insurance costs by December 18, 2025.

“Millions of Americans are facing significant increases in health insurance premiums starting January 2026, as they’ve been notified during this open enrollment period,” it emphasizes.

The proposal includes a two-year extension for health insurance premium savings aimed at American households, featuring one year of the Enhanced Premium Tax Credit (ePTC) with specific modifications. This is expected to be voted on by December 18, 2025, in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The letter highlights the continuation of ePTC for those earning below 600% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), along with the proposal to phase out ePTC for individuals earning between 600% and 1000% FPL.

Additionally, the framework calls for reinforced measures to combat insurance fraud by invoking the Insurance Fraud Liability Act.

In a recent interview, Matt Boyle, a Washington bureau chief for Breitbart News, noted that a rise in premiums post-December 31 could lead Republicans to steer clear of the midterm elections. He stated, “If we don’t act by Dec. 31, premiums will surge. It’ll be chaotic, and poll numbers will drop… it’s a risk for midterm elections.” Boyle mentioned that Republicans would benefit from delaying action until after the 2028 elections.