Affordable Care Act needs updates as premiums rise

More than 20 million Americans are facing sharply higher ACA premiums after Congress did not pass a vote to extend pandemic-era subsidies, and nearly 50 million people rely on the law for health coverage.

More than 20 million Americans are facing sharply higher premiums for continued coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Congress did not pass a vote to extend the pandemic-era subsidies that had reduced costs for many enrollees. Nearly 50 million people rely on the ACA for health coverage, and advocates say the law has shown strain as it reaches its 15th year. Key facts: - Over 20 million people are reported to face higher premiums for ACA plans. - Congressional action to extend temporary subsidies did not pass, affecting affordability for those enrollees. - About 50 million people rely on the ACA for health coverage, and gaps remain in states that did not expand Medicaid. Summary: Rising premiums and the lapse of extended subsidies are reported to put coverage at greater risk for some enrollees and to increase financial strain for others. Undetermined at this time.