Idaho Democrats Fight to Protect Affordable Health Care as Open Enrollment Begins

Today, Idaho became the first state in the nation to open Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment, offering an early look at what’s at stake for families across the country if enhanced federal tax credits expire at the end of the year.

Over 117,000 Idahoans buy their coverage through Your Health Idaho, which has made monthly premiums affordable for working families, retirees, and small business owners for more than a decade. Unless Congress reverses health care cuts in the Republican budget, enhanced tax credits that reduce costs will disappear. Idaho families will see their premiums double, on average, and an estimated 25,000 Idahoans will lose their coverage entirely.

Democratic leaders are working to extend the life-saving tax credits that keep costs manageable for working Americans. Independent polling shows that nearly eight in ten Americans want the ACA tax credits to be extended, including most Republicans. Meanwhile, Idaho Republicans in Congress are ignoring pleas from Idahoans and have shut down the government rather than keep health care affordable.

In response to Idaho opening enrollment as Republicans block efforts to extend ACA tax credits, Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea released the following statement:

“As the first state to open enrollment, Idaho is exposing the real cost of Republican attacks on health care. Families across the state are opening letters that tell them their premiums are doubling, and many are realizing they will have to give up coverage altogether. This is no accident. The Trump regime and Idaho Republicans refused to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits that have kept coverage within reach for over 100,000 Idahoans. Their carelessness means retirees, small business owners, and working parents will be forced to choose between health care and basic necessities. Democrats are fighting to lower costs, protect rural hospitals, and make sure every Idahoan can afford to see a doctor. Republicans are fighting for billionaires and corporate tax breaks. Idaho families cannot afford this manufactured crisis, and Democrats will not stop fighting until every Idahoan can access affordable health care.”