
The Expiring Tax Credits: A Looming Healthcare Crisis for Bexar County
If Congress fails to act soon, over 234,000 residents of Bexar County could see their health care premiums dramatically increase in 2026. This alarming prospect arises from the impending expiration of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace tax credits at the end of 2025. These credits, which currently keep premiums below 8.5% of a family’s annual income, offer crucial financial support to low- and middle-income individuals.
Who Depends on These Tax Credits?
Those most affected by the ending credits are often part-time workers, small business employees, self-employed individuals, and contractors, who lack access to affordable employer-sponsored healthcare. According to local health experts, the loss of these credits is expected to exacerbate the issue of uninsured individuals in South Texas, further straining healthcare providers already grappling with high patient volumes.
Local Impact: Economic and Healthcare Strain
The implications extend far beyond individual households. Local business owners might face difficult decisions regarding healthcare support for employees, potentially stalling economic growth in Bexar County. “What it means for families is hundreds to thousands of dollars per month,” emphasized Dan Miller, the CEO of Methodist Healthcare. For many families, maintaining essential health coverage could lead to dire financial choices.
A Closer Look at the Statistics
In recent years, the ACA marketplace has seen a significant rise in enrollment. In 2024 alone, Bexar County saw a 219% increase in covered residents, totaling over 234,000, including more than 25,000 children. This surge was fueled by extended tax credits and enhanced premium support initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Without Congressional intervention, experts predict a sharp reversal of this progress, with KFF projecting that 1.1 million Texans could lose coverage altogether.
The Call for Action
As Bexar County approaches a critical juncture, the urgency for Congress to renew these tax credits is paramount. Understanding the repercussions of inaction is crucial for residents and small business owners alike. It’s time to advocate for healthcare policies that ensure continued accessibility and affordability for all.
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