Wisconsin ACA Tax Credit Expiration Threatens Healthcare Premiums Doubling in 2026

The ongoing federal government shutdown centers on the expiration of Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, which are critical for making health insurance affordable for many Americans, particularly in Wisconsin. These tax credits, set to expire on January 1, could cause premiums for ACA plans to skyrocket, with some Wisconsinites facing increases of over $30,000 annually, effectively pricing many out of coverage. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and Democratic lawmakers warn that 88% of those enrolled in ACA plans rely on these credits and urge Congress to act to prevent a healthcare crisis. Republicans, including Wisconsin representatives, have been criticized for their role in the shutdown and the potential loss of these subsidies, with Democrats calling on them to negotiate an end to the impasse. The increase in premiums is part of a broader national trend, with reports indicating a 30% average rise in premiums for ACA marketplace plans next year, exacerbated by political stalemates and policy changes under the Trump administration. The dispute underscores the political tension surrounding healthcare funding and its impact on millions of families struggling with rising costs.