Healthcare is a human right. As Christians, we believe no one should have to choose between a doctor’s visit and a full meal. That is why we are calling on Congress to protect affordable healthcare for everyone—not just the wealthy few.  

This July, Congress cut billions of dollars from the Medicaid and SNAP programs, threatening closure of hundreds of rural and urban hospitals, kicking millions of low-income communities off their healthcare, and increasing the cost of groceries for families in need. 

The Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits provide 24 million Americans with healthcare that they wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise by lowering monthly healthcare premiums. These credits benefit 93% of ACA enrollees, including many people with low incomes. While this tax credit helps millions of Americans stay healthy, the program is critical for lower income families who do not qualify for Medicaid but still cannot afford their healthcare. To see how you or your loved ones might be impacted, you can use the tool here.  

As we approach 2026, the tax credits are set to expire before the new year. If they are not renewed, healthcare costs are projected to increase by 114% on average for ACA enrollees. This would leave 4.8 million people without healthcare. Studies suggest that the expiration of the tax credits plus cuts to Medicaid and Marketplace coverage could lead to the deaths of 51,000 uninsured folks every year. This is a dangerous, immoral decision that must be stopped before irreversible damage is done. 

As Matthew 6:21 says, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The United Church of Christ recognizes the budget is a moral document. Every cut reflects where our nation places its heart: with the powerful few, or with the sick child, the struggling parent, the elder choosing between medicine and groceries.    

This is why we are urging Congress to extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credits before it is too late.