Today, community members and advocates with Michigan Families for Fair Care gathered at Congressman Tom Barrett's district office for what was scheduled to be a conversation about concerns related to the shutdown. The gathering occurred following his recent comments claiming he’d be “open to discussing” extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits before they are set to expire.
"Today we were finally able to meet in Congressman Barrett's office to ask about what he plans to do about the incoming healthcare crisis and what he plans to do about families who can't afford our premiums to double when the health care tax credits expire," said Cynthia Burton, a constituent in Michigan's 7th District. "His staff was thoughtful, but wouldn't give me real answers about the actions our Congressman would take to address this crisis. Meanwhile, real people are going to be hurt by this. We need Tom Barrett to take action to reopen the government and extend these health care tax credits permanently."
“Today we made clear to Congressman Barrett’s office staff that this shutdown is harmful, it is expensive, and it needs to end. I don't like when we are playing politics with people’s health care, and if we allow these health care tax credits to run out we are risking people’s lives,” said Lansing-area Nurse, and MI-07 resident Ashley Meyers. "Our healthcare costs and insurance premiums are all going up and people are going to be cut off from essential nutrition programs. For what? Today Congressman Barrett’s staff were more open to hearing from us and we appreciate this first step but we need action now to end this shutdown, fund these healthcare tax credits permanently to secure our future healthcare.”
The health care tax credits are set to expire soon, which could result in annual premium payments increasing by 114% for enrolled participants across the country. Without health care tax credits, tens of thousands of Michiganders will see the cost of their health care premiums skyrocket by an average of more than $700 per month. Despite previous calls on Congressman Barrett to act sooner, our congressman voted to prioritize massive tax giveaways to billionaires and corporations.
