The U.S. House of Representatives approved a three-year extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits on Thursday. The measure passed with a vote of 230 to 196, with 17 Republican representatives joining all Democrats in support. The legislation's passage through the Senate in its current form is considered improbable, though some lawmakers hope it will initiate broader legislative compromise.
Impact of Tax Credits
The Affordable Care Act tax credits are designed to subsidize health insurance premiums for millions of Americans enrolled in state-run exchanges. Analysis indicated that premiums were projected to double without the continuation of these enhanced credits.
Colorado Representatives' Perspectives
Colorado's congressional representatives have offered reactions to the House's decision.
Representative Gabe Evans, a Republican from Colorado's 8th Congressional District, advocates for reforms. He cited a General Accounting Office audit that identified subsidies being allocated to 68,000 deceased individuals. Evans stated the necessity of ensuring healthcare availability while also addressing "fraud, waste, and abuse" within the system.
Representative Brittany Pettersen, a Democrat representing Colorado's 7th Congressional District, emphasized the need to identify and support efforts to ensure that aid reaches its intended recipients.
Senate Outlook
Lawmakers are now looking to the Senate for progress on a long-sought agreement to extend the credits, potentially incorporating reforms. The Senate previously rejected a Democrat-led attempt to pass a three-year extension of the enhanced tax credits last month.