The Brian Lehrer Show The Latest Battle Over the Fate of the ACA
Dec 15, 2025
Julie Rovner, Chief Washington Correspondent for KFF Health News and host of What the Health?, dives into the current upheaval over the Affordable Care Act. She highlights the December 15 enrollment deadline and reasons behind the rising premiums. Julie discusses the implications of expiring pandemic subsidies and the projected loss of coverage for millions. She offers insight into how self-employed individuals face challenges with monthly costs and potential penalties. The conversation also touches on U.S. health costs compared to other countries and the political landscape surrounding healthcare reform.
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Deadline And Subsidy Cliff
- Open enrollment today is the deadline to get ACA exchange coverage starting January 1, otherwise coverage begins February 1 if you sign up by Jan 15.
- The expanded pandemic-era subsidies expire end of December, so many will face much higher out-of-pocket costs next year.
Sign Up And Pay To Start Jan 1
- To get coverage effective January 1, sign up and pay your first month's premium by December 15.
- If you miss today, enroll by Jan 15 for coverage starting Feb 1.
Premiums Rise And Risk Pools Shift
- KFF analysis shows ACA exchange premiums are up about 18% overall, with higher out-of-pocket shares due to subsidy rollbacks.
- Insurers expect healthier people to drop coverage, which can further raise premiums for remaining enrollees.