Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act
Summary
The "Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act" aims to repeal changes made by the health subtitle of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (Public Law 119-21). It also seeks to permanently extend enhanced tax credits under Section 36B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, eliminating the 400% income cap for eligibility. The bill adjusts the applicable percentages for premium assistance, providing a sliding scale based on household income relative to the poverty line.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would reverse specific healthcare provisions enacted under Public Law 119-21. It would also make premium tax credits for health insurance coverage available to more individuals and families, potentially lowering their healthcare costs. The changes would apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to affordable health insurance through the permanent extension of enhanced tax credits.
- Lower healthcare costs for individuals and families, particularly those with incomes above 400% of the poverty line.
- Simplification of the tax credit calculation by removing the income cap.
- Potential for greater stability in the health insurance market due to increased enrollment.
- Reduced financial burden on low-to-moderate income households.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in the federal budget deficit due to the expanded tax credits.
- Possible shifts in the health insurance market that could affect premiums for some individuals.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term financial sustainability of the expanded tax credits.
- Potential for political opposition and challenges to the bill's enactment.
- May not address all aspects of healthcare affordability and access.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's provisions related to taxation and spending fall under the purview of Congress's powers as defined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).