(WWNY) – We have figures for the North Country on what it would cost some families if enhanced tax credits for health insurance are not extended. That extension is the major sticking point in the current government shutdown.
Citing state health department figures, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) says people in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties who earn $65,000 a year would pay an extra $218 a month. That’s a 71 percent increase.
A family with a $130,000 annual income would pay $445 per month, or 44 percent more.
The hikes would apply to those who use insurance provided through the Affordable Care Act.
“Democrats are using the only bit of leverage we have right now just to fight for people’s health care. I think the raise in rates is so untenable and so frightening to so many people,” said Gillibrand.
The subsidies were expanded by the American Rescue Plan during the pandemic. Many Republicans argue they were intended to be temporary.
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