As the end of the year approaches, U.S. lawmakers are racing against the clock to address the escalating health care costs impacting millions of Americans. Central to this urgent debate are health care spending and the impending expiration of COVID-19 era subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. These subsidies are set to lapse at the end of December 2023, which has intensified discussions in Washington, D.C.
California Reps. Kevin Kiley and Sam Liccardo have introduced a legislative proposal known as the “Fix It Act,” aiming to extend these crucial subsidies for an additional two years. Kiley emphasized the significance of this extension, stating, “On average, people’s healthcare premiums will double.” He highlighted that approximately 22 million Americans could be significantly affected by the expiration of these credits.
In an interview with California Politics 360, Kiley pointed out that independent contractors, small business owners, and retirees not yet eligible for Medicare are among those who would bear the brunt of the rising costs. He reiterated, “I’m not willing to just do nothing,” underscoring the need for immediate action.
Before the holiday season, President Donald Trump was reportedly contemplating a plan to tackle the issue, though he has expressed hesitance regarding the extension of the credits. Kiley noted that the administration’s considerations bore similarities to the Fix It Act and stressed the necessity for a swift response. “We do need to act with a sense of urgency here,” he stated.
While the proposal has garnered support, Kiley acknowledged that convincing some Republican colleagues remains a challenge. He mentioned receiving “quite a bit” of backing from other party members, though he noted the importance of gaining broader consensus.
As for the legislative timeline, House Speaker Mike Johnson has not yet provided a clear indication of when the House might vote on the measure. Kiley is hopeful for a Senate vote on a version of the extension by December 12, 2023. “Hopefully the Speaker will understand this is a priority for the members and a priority for the American people,” he said, expressing optimism for the proposal’s prospects.
The urgency of this issue reflects a broader conversation about health care affordability in the United States. Kiley cautioned that while the Fix It Act is a vital step, it will not resolve the larger crisis facing the health care system. He called for Congress to adopt a more proactive approach to address these ongoing challenges.
As the deadline looms, the outcome of this proposal and its potential impact on millions of Americans remains a critical topic in the political landscape. The developments in Washington will be closely monitored as lawmakers strive to find a solution before the end of the year.
