Health Coverage Bridge: Near-Free Care for Low-Income in Non-Expansion States.
This bill aims to provide highly affordable health insurance for low-income individuals (up to 138% of the poverty line) residing in states that have not expanded Medicaid. For 2026 through 2028, these individuals will be eligible for health plans covering 99% of their total medical costs, drastically reducing out-of-pocket expenses. The legislation also creates continuous enrollment periods and temporarily increases federal funding incentives for states to expand Medicaid.
Key points
Cost Reduction: From 2026 to 2028, low-income individuals (up to 138% FPL) will have their cost-sharing reduced so that their health plan covers 99% of total allowed medical costs.
Enrollment Access: A continuous special enrollment period is established (2025-2028) for low-income individuals who lack other essential health coverage.
Tax Credits: Premium Tax Credits are temporarily expanded (2026-2028), removing income caps and allowing low-income employees to receive credits even if offered employer coverage.
State Incentives: The federal matching rate (FMAP) for states that expand Medicaid is temporarily increased to 93% for 2026-2028.
Expired
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