Lawmakers in Washington have passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) that includes significant changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). While the legislation is now official, many of its details are still being shaped through rulemaking, guidance, and state-level decisions. That means the real-world impact could shift as the law is rolled out. Here's a look at what the law includes so far and how it may affect individuals and families in the months ahead.
1. Changes to ACA Subsidies
One of the most notable proposals involves the
expiration of enhanced premium subsidies—financial assistance that lowers the monthly cost of health insurance for many individuals and families.
These subsidies were originally expanded under pandemic-era legislation and later extended through the Inflation Reduction Act. If not renewed, they are set to end in late 2025.
- According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), premiums could increase significantly—by up to
75% in some states.
- Roughly
4.2 million people could lose their current coverage due to rising costs.
2. Adjustments to Enrollment Policies
The bill also suggests several updates to how people enroll in ACA health plans:
- A
shorter annual enrollment period, reducing the time available to sign up for coverage
- The
end of automatic re-enrollment, which currently helps about 11 million people maintain continuous coverage
- Annual eligibility checks to verify income and qualification status
- Revised access rules for certain
lawfully present immigrants
The CBO projects these changes could result in
3.1 million more individuals becoming uninsured.
3. Proposed Medicaid Reforms
The legislation includes potential reforms to Medicaid, a key health program for low-income individuals and families.
Proposed updates include:
- Work requirements for some adults without disabilities
- Increased cost-sharing (e.g., co-pays) for people with income above the poverty line
- Stricter eligibility verification processes
- A
reduction in federal funding for state Medicaid programs that cover undocumented immigrants
- Funding limitations on certain services, including gender-affirming care
According to CBO estimates, these Medicaid-related changes could lead to
7.8 million fewer people being enrolled in the program.
What Happens Next?
These proposals are still being debated and may change before any final legislation is enacted. While some changes are designed to reduce government spending, they could also increase the number of people without health insurance or lead to higher out-of-pocket costs for some Americans.
Timeline for Changes
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act brings a phased rollout of ACA and Medicaid changes beginning in late 2025. By the end of
2025, enhanced premium subsidies are set to expire, potentially raising costs for millions starting January 2026. In
2026, key ACA enrollment changes take effect—including a shorter sign-up window, elimination of automatic re-enrollment, and stricter income verification.
Starting in 2027, Medicaid work requirements for able-bodied adults begin, alongside increased cost-sharing and tighter eligibility checks. Additional reforms will continue rolling out through the late 2020s, with the full impact—an estimated 15+ million additional uninsured—projected by
2034.
Bottom line:
If you or your family rely on ACA coverage or Medicaid, it’s a good idea to stay informed and watch for updates. Policy shifts like these can impact eligibility, premiums, and benefits—so being proactive can help you plan ahead.
Stay tuned as more details unfold—and consider checking with an independent insurance agent ahead of the next open enrollment period.
