KQED's Forum What Steep Health Insurance Price Hikes Could Mean for Nearly 2 Million Californians on Covered CA
Oct 21, 2025
Larry Levitt, an expert in U.S. health policy, joins Jessica Altman, Executive Director of Covered California, to discuss the looming expiration of enhanced ACA premium tax credits. They break down how these credits work and the significant consequences for Californians if subsidies end. Premiums could skyrocket for millions, especially those most vulnerable. They explore the implications for the uninsured population and the broader healthcare system, emphasizing the crucial role of insurance in preventative care and chronic disease management.
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Pandemic Credits Drove Enrollment Surge
- Enhanced premium tax credits enacted during COVID dramatically increased ACA enrollment and reduced the uninsured rate.
- Those credits are set to expire at year-end and Congress must act to extend them to avoid major coverage losses.
Cost To Federal Budget Is Central
- Extending enhanced tax credits would cost about $350 billion over 10 years.
- That federal price is central to the political tradeoff in Congress.
Self-Employed Buyer Faces Big Hit
- Heather, a self-employed person making ~$60k, currently receives a $700 monthly subsidy.
- If subsidies expire she expects to pay $700 more per month and face a major income hit.