Backing Affordable Health Care

TL/DR –

The Boulder County Commissioners emphasize the importance of enhanced premium tax credits in making health insurance affordable and accessible, particularly for lower-income and middle-class families. These credits, set to expire in 2026, have reportedly reduced monthly premiums significantly, but if Congress fails to take action, people could see an increase in premiums of 50% to 100% or much more. Commissioners warn that the expiration of these credits would result in a sharp increase in health insurance costs and a potential rise in the uninsured rate, and express their support for the proposed extension of the enhanced premium tax credits in the upcoming U.S. Senate vote.

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For information in other languages, please contact the Boulder County Commissioners via email at commissioners@bouldercounty.gov.

The Case for the Continuation of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits

Enhanced premium tax credits have played a pivotal role in making health insurance more affordable and accessible to millions, including a considerable number of Coloradans. This was particularly evident in the wake of the expansion of these credits under the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021 and their continuation through the Inflation Reduction Act. These initiatives have effectively decreased monthly premiums and have been instrumental in assisting lower-income and middle-class families to retain coverage during economically challenging periods.

However, unless the U.S. Congress takes action, these tax credits are due to expire in 2026. Consequently, the Health Coverage Guides of Boulder County have received the following feedback:

• There is a significant increase in premiums by 50% to 100% or more for some people, leading to hundreds of dollars being added to their monthly household budget.
• Due to high costs, some individuals may risk going without coverage next year – this could potentially include individuals with health conditions that require regular health care.
• Some people are favoring plans with higher co-pays and deductibles, which would lead to an increase in out-of-pocket expenses when they seek health care the following year.

Without intervention from Congress, the sunset of these credits will result in a drastic increase in health insurance costs, especially at a time when the cost of other goods and services continue to escalate. The Congressional Budget Office warns that the loss of enhanced premium tax credits could trigger a significant increase in the uninsured rate, effectively reversing the strides made in expanding access to care.

Colorado’s congressional delegation, including Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and Representative Neguse, have been tirelessly advocating for the wellbeing of Coloradans by striving to secure affordable health care.

The Boulder County Commissioners fully endorse the proposed extension of the enhanced premium tax credits, which will be up for a vote in the U.S. Senate on Thursday.

Commissioner Claire Levy

Commissioner Marta Loachamin

Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann

Boulder County Health Coverage Guides, a part of Boulder County’s Human Services department, are available to assist residents in securing health insurance through the Connect for Health Colorado marketplace. More information can be found on the Boulder County Enrollment Center website.

Ambit of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Boulder County is committed to ensuring equal access to all programs, activities, and services for everyone. To request an Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accommodation, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ada@bouldercounty.gov or call 303-441-1386. Requests should preferably be made at least two business days prior to the event. For further details, Review the Boulder County’s ADA Policy.

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