The House of Representatives passed a three-year extension of the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced subsidies on Jan. 8, adding to the political drama surrounding health care affordability since last year, when it was cited as part of the reason for a record-breaking government shutdown.
The bill passed 230–196 with the help of 17 Republicans who went against the wishes of party leaders.
Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) called the bill a subsidy for the rich. “Any support of the bill ensures subsidies go to wealthy families making as much as $600,000 a year,” Smith said during the debate.
Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.), who helped create Obamacare, described the bill as a victory for affordable health care. “The [Affordable Care Act] is still standing, and we will continue to improve it every single year.”…
House Passes 3-Year Extension of Obamacare Subsidies
