Dear Editor:
Congress can make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of New Jersey residents by making affordable health care a reality for all. When the American Rescue Plan was passed earlier this year, it included expanded subsidies to help millions of eligible enrollees in the federal health insurance marketplace. Because of this relief, 100,000 of NJ’s uninsured residents are new eligible for these tax credits. The benefits went well beyond Congress and legislation: these families were given some peace of mind during a time when they were most vulnerable.
However, these subsidies are set to expire at the end of next year unless Congress acts. New Jersey policyholders would see increased premiums, which could force many to lose health insurance. I thank Congressmen Albio Sires and Donald Payne for their advocacy and support.
This issue should not be a partisan battle. With the help of Congressman Josh Gottheimer and the Problem Solvers Caucus, Congress can act and make these subsidies permanent, preserving affordable access to care. If these subsidies are made permanent, 88,000 uninsured New Jerseyans could miss out on access to affordable health care next year. These subsidies empower communities, benefit people of all ages, and sets up a better future for our state.
Congressman Gottheimer and Democrats in Congress have long fought the battle for access to affordable care for all. I hope they once again support this effort by voting to make permanent the marketplace tax credits in the upcoming reconciliation package.
Assemblyman Nicholas Chiaravalloti
