ICYMI: Hampton Roads Residents Head to Washington to Advocate for Extension to ACA Tax Credits
Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Senate Democrats hosted a press conference and forum with everyday Americans, including Hampton Roads residents, to highlight the lived experiences of those who rely on ACA tax credits for their health care. As tax credits are set to run out in three weeks, families are bracing for their health care premiums to double, with many simply unable to afford insurance at all without tax credits. Meanwhile, Rep. Kiggans said that she hopes the ACA tax credits will be phased out.
Becky Roberts speaks to a reporter.
“I’ve been on the Affordable Care Act for a couple of years now… This summer I had surgery to correct my hip deformity. I am currently undergoing physical therapy. My premiums have gone up 110%. I can probably manage, but some people can’t. If I’m allowed to keep my insurance, if I’m allowed to continue my physical therapy, within a few months to a year, I’ll be out of my wheelchair. Otherwise, this is where I’m going to be for the rest of my life. I want to do basic things like walk my dog. If I’m allowed to, I can have those simple dreams. My story is the story of millions of people that are being impacted by this,” said Becky Roberts, Small Business Owner and Virginia Beach Resident. “This is a matter of life, and a matter of quality of life.”
“Due to the Affordable Care Act, my husband and I felt empowered to consider career options that were not directly tied to employer-sponsored health insurance plans. I have several health conditions that require regular lab work and visits to specialists multiple times per year. Our sons also have health conditions that require regular visits to specialist providers and have included hospitalizations and multiple ER visits,” said Kathleen Winters, Small Business Owner and Newport News Resident. “The enhanced premium tax credits have made this plan manageable for our family budget. In 2025, we paid $544/month for a plan that covered all of our doctors and had a low deductible and copay. In 2026, our premium for that same plan is slated to be $842/month--$300 more. Without any subsidy, the 2026 premium for our current plan would be $1552/month, or $18,624 for the year, which we cannot afford. Will small-business owners like us continue to receive much-needed support, or will we wake up one day to healthcare costs that are double or triple what they are now? In the United States of America, access to affordable healthcare should not prevent anyone from starting a business, changing careers, or being able to live the life of their choosing.”
The Senate is expected to take a vote on a 3-year extension of the ACA tax credits later today.
