House Republicans Unveil New Health Care Plan After Senate Bills Stall

House Republicans released proposed legislation late Friday to address health care costs, following the Senate's failure to advance bills on the issue earlier this week. The proposed legislation would not extend enhanced Affordable Care Act tax subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of the year, but would make other changes that party leaders insist will improve Americans' access to health care. According to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., the proposed legislation aims to "make health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans." Johnson stated that the bill would "increase transparency and accountability in the health care system, reduce regulatory burdens, and promote competition among health care providers." The proposal would also establish a new program to help low-income individuals purchase health insurance, but it would not provide the same level of subsidies as the enhanced tax credits that are set to expire. The enhanced subsidies, which began in 2021, were designed to make ACA marketplace plans more affordable for more Americans. Democrats have been pushing to extend those subsidies to prevent premiums from doubling or more. Without the enhanced subsidies, millions of Americans' premiums are expected to skyrocket. The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, was signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2010. Republicans have long criticized the law, arguing that it is too expensive and overly burdensome on the health care system. However, Democrats have defended the law as a necessary step to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable health care. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., expressed skepticism about the House Republicans' proposal, stating that it "falls short" of addressing the needs of Americans who rely on the ACA for health insurance. "This proposal does not provide the same level of support that millions of Americans need to afford health care," Jeffries said. "We will continue to push for a comprehensive solution that extends the enhanced subsidies and protects the health care of Americans who rely on the ACA." Time is running out for Congress to act on health care reform. The enhanced subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year, and lawmakers must pass legislation before then to prevent a significant increase in premiums. The House Republicans' proposal is expected to face opposition from Democrats, who are pushing for a more comprehensive solution. The Senate has already failed to advance bills on the issue, and it remains to be seen whether the House proposal will be able to pass in the coming weeks.