Senator Welch Urges Bipartisan Action to Protect ACA Tax Credits and Avoid Shutdown

Senator Peter Welch, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, along with Senator Tammy Baldwin and other Democratic colleagues, urged Congressional Republicans to collaborate in extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits.

These tax credits currently support nearly 27,000 Vermonters in accessing health insurance through the ACA marketplace. The failure to extend these credits could result in a government shutdown and an increase in premium costs, making healthcare unaffordable for millions. Welch highlighted the rising uninsured rates in several Republican-led states if these tax credits expire as of December 31, 2025. The senators emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation to prevent the loss of affordable healthcare for low- and moderate-income Americans. Welch also criticized the current executive branch's approach to legislative negotiation, stressing the constitutional role of Congress in health and budget decisions.

Throughout this Congress, Senator Welch has introduced multiple bills aimed at improving healthcare access and affordability, including legislation targeting Medicare pricing, prescription drug costs, Medicaid pharmacy protections, and rural hospital funding. These efforts highlight ongoing legislative initiatives to address healthcare market challenges and regulatory frameworks in the U.S.