Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher Refuse to Lower Health Care Costs for Working Families

Today, Idaho Republican Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher voted against Democrats’ plan to extend enhanced ACA premium tax credits, after Republicans let those credits expire on December 31. Because Republicans refused to act, more than 100,000 Idahoans are now facing premium hikes that could double or triple what they pay each month.

Last month, Idaho became the first state in the nation to end open enrollment for its state health insurance marketplace. New enrollments fell 24%, disenrollment nearly doubled, and more Idahoans were pushed into lower quality plans compared to last year. Experts warn 20,000 additional Idahoans could be forced to drop coverage entirely if Congress does not act.

In response Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea released the following statement:

“Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher voted to lock in higher health care costs for Idaho families. They let life-saving ACA tax credits expire on December 31, and now nearly 100,000 Idahoans are staring down premium hikes that could double what they pay just to stay covered. Extending these credits is the straightforward fix supported by voters across the political spectrum. Instead of standing with working families, Simpson and Fulcher voted no. Idahoans are already getting squeezed by the cost of food, rent, and utilities. They can’t afford a Republican premium spike on top of everything else. Idaho Democrats will keep fighting to lower costs and protect coverage. Now it’s time for Republicans to stop doing Donald Trump’s bidding and start standing up for the people they represent.”