House Republican leadership today refused to bring a vital extension of the Affordable Care Act's enhanced premium tax credits to a floor vote, drawing sharp criticism from moderate members within their own party. This decision leaves millions of Americans at risk of losing affordable health coverage as the subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year.
The enhanced tax credits, which have helped lower health insurance premiums for over 20 million people, were expanded under the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act. Without an extension, premiums could rise by an average of $700 annually for many families, exacerbating health care costs amid ongoing economic pressures.
An 11th-hour push by moderate Republicans to force a vote through the House Rules Committee failed late Tuesday night. Speaker Mike Johnson has staunchly opposed the measure, aligning with conservative factions despite pleas from vulnerable GOP members in competitive districts.
"This refusal to act is idiotic and shortsighted," stated Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), a vocal moderate. "We're abandoning our constituents who rely on these subsidies to access basic health care. Leadership's inaction will cost us politically and hurt real people."
The Senate previously rejected similar legislation, further dimming prospects for renewal. Advocacy groups and Democrats have condemned the move, urging immediate bipartisan action to prevent a coverage crisis.
House moderates vow to continue fighting for the extension, emphasizing its role in stabilizing the health insurance marketplace and supporting working families.