Fewer Americans sign up for Affordable Care Act health insurance as costs spike

"Fewer Americans are signing up for Affordable Care Act health insurance plans this year, new federal data shows, as expiring subsidies and other factors push health expenses too high for many to manage. Nationally, around 800,000 fewer people have selected plans compared to a similar time last year, marking a 3.5% drop in total enrollment so far. That includes a decrease in both new consumers signing up for ACA plans and existing enrollees re-upping them."

"The declining enrollment comes as Congress has been locked in a partisan battle over what to do about the subsidies that expired at the start of the new year. For months, Democrats have fought for a straight extension of the tax credits, while Republicans have insisted larger reforms are a better way to root out fraud and abuse and keep costs down overall. Last week, in a remarkable rebuke of Republican leadership, the House passed legislation to extend the subsidies for three years."

Around 800,000 fewer people have selected Affordable Care Act plans this year, a 3.5% drop in enrollment so far. The data covers sign-ups through Jan. 3 for states using Healthcare.gov and through Dec. 27 for state-run marketplaces, with most states allowing shopping through Jan. 15 for February starts. Expiring enhanced tax credits and rising health expenses are driving the decline, prompting some consumers to delay, seek alternatives, or forgo coverage. Some enrollees may cancel after receiving initial bills in January, potentially reducing totals further. Congressional debate continues over extending subsidies versus pursuing broader reforms.

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