Final day to select ACA health plans arrives in most states, with no subsidy deal yet

"NEW YORK -- Thursday was the final day to select an Affordable Care Act health insurance plan across much of the country, as the expiration of federal subsidies drives up health costs and lawmakers remain locked in a debate over how to address the issue. That's when the open enrollment window ends in most states for plans that start in February."

"About 10 states that run their own marketplaces have later deadlines, or have extended them to the end of the month to give their residents more time. The date is a crucial one for millions of small business owners, gig workers, farmers, ranchers and others who don't get their health insurance from a job and therefore rely on marketplace plans. A record 24 million Americans purchased Affordable Care Act health plans last year."

Open enrollment for most Affordable Care Act plans ended Thursday for coverage starting in February, with about 10 states keeping later deadlines. Enrollment is down, with about 22.8 million sign-ups so far, roughly 800,000 fewer than a similar point last year, a 3.5% drop that includes fewer new and returning enrollees. A record 24 million Americans purchased ACA plans last year. COVID-era expanded subsidies expired Jan. 1, and KFF analysis shows the average subsidized enrollee faces more than double the monthly premium in 2026. Millions of small business owners, gig workers, farmers and others rely on marketplace coverage.

Read at ABC7 Los Angeles