December 8, 2025 - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins joined Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) in introducing the Consumer Affordability and Responsibility Enhancement (CARE) Act to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for two years, cap income eligibility for these subsidies, and eliminate zero-premium plans under the ACA.

“Families in Maine and across the country are struggling with the high cost of health care, and we need to pursue practical solutions that increase affordability without creating sudden disruptions in coverage,” said Senator Collins. “This bill would help prevent unaffordable increases in health insurance premium costs for many families by extending the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits for two years and putting a reasonable income cap on these subsidies to ensure they are going to the individuals who need them.”

Related: California Congressman Jim Costa Joins Bipartisan Group of 35 House Members to Unveil "CommonGround 2025" Health Care Framework, Includes Two-Year Extension of Critical Health Insurance Premium Savings, Including One Year of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits

The CARE Act, which is led by Senator Bernie Moreno, extends the enhanced ACA premium tax credits and gradually phases out the COVID-era enhancements over two years to prevent sudden coverage disruptions. The bill would also eliminate zero-premium plans by requiring a minimum monthly premium of $25 to promote the long-term sustainability of the program.


Premiums example without extensions for a specific person
Credit: U.S. Senator Cory Booker

Source: Senator Susan Collins