A Call to Action: Advocating for Affordable Health Coverage in CT

A message from the Chamber President. 

Dear Colleagues: 

As members of the business community, it is our responsibility to ensure that all Connecticut families have access to affordable healthcare. Chamber member Access Health CT recently shared a comprehensive article detailing how the enhanced subsidies from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act and the Inflation Reduction Act have significantly reduced the state’s uninsured rate and made health coverage more accessible. However, these subsidies are set to expire at the end of 2025, and without action from Congress, the expiration will have devastating consequences. Families could face premium increases of up to $3,000 per year and those who already struggle to make ends meet will suffer further.

With fewer people able to afford coverage, healthier individuals will forgo the marketplace, and rates will rise for remaining enrollers, creating a cycle of increasing costs for everyone among hospitals and providers. As business leaders, we know that a healthy workforce is key to a strong economy, and we cannot afford to undo the progress we have made in expanding access to healthcare.

I urge all Chamber members and Connecticut residents to contact our Congressional delegation and advocate for the extension of these vital subsidies. The Connecticut General Assembly website is a great resource for researching and contacting your local representatives to voice your concerns. The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut also has an established bill tracking system on our Government Affairs webpage to help you stay abreast of legislation pertaining to this topic and many others of importance.

Let’s stand together to protect our residents, support our healthcare system, and preserve the economic well-being of our state. The future of Connecticut’s health and prosperity depends on it.

Regards, 

Tony Sheridan 

President & CEO, Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT 

Relevant Bills:

SB1048 | Connecticut 2025 | AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH CARE ACCESS AND AFFORDABILITY. | TrackBill