Governor Moore Enhances State Health Insurance Resources and Support During Federal Government Shutdown

Maryland Braces for Healthcare Premium Hikes Amid Federal Shutdown

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore Visited the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services in Silver Spring Today to Address Maryland’s Response to the Continuing Federal Government Impasse. The Visit Underscored the Growing Threat of Exponentially Rising Health Care Premiums for Many Marylanders, a Direct Result of Congressional Inaction and Policies Stemming from the Previous Governance.

The Looming premium Increase

Governor Moore Emphasized That No State Can Fully Compensate for the Absence of Federal Support for Its Citizens. However, he Pledged maryland’s Commitment to Mitigating the Impact. “There is no state in the country that can fill the gap when the federal government abandons its citizens, but in Maryland, we will continue to stand in the gap, fight for our families, and bring costs down,” Governor Moore Stated. Maryland’s Congressional Delegation is Working to Secure an Extension of Federal tax Credits Aimed at Preventing These Increases.

United States Senator Chris Van Hollen Characterized the Situation as a “ticking time bomb,” Warning That Millions Could Face Ample Premium Spikes or loss of Coverage if a Resolution is Not Reached. He Further Criticized the Suspension of Funding for Vital Research programs. Senator Angela Alsobrooks Echoed These Concerns, Attributing the Shutdown to “cruel and callous” Republican Policies.Congressman Jamie Raskin Accused the Current Administration of Prioritizing Tax Cuts for the Wealthy Over Affordable Healthcare for the Middle Class.

State Action to Cushion the Blow

Congressman Glenn Ivey Highlighted the Concrete Impact on Working Families, Seniors, and Young Adults. He Asserted That the Potential Loss of Tax Credits Threatens Access to Essential Care. Congresswoman april McClain Delaney Emphasized the Vulnerability of Rural Healthcare Providers,Which Could Be Forced to Reduce Services if Funding is Cut. The Maryland Insurance Administration Approved 2026 Affordable Care Act Premium Rates on September 19, Reflecting an Average Increase of 13.4% Due to the Failure to Extend Existing Tax Credits.

According to State Data, Approximately 247,000 Marylanders Were enrolled in Health Coverage through the Marketplace in 2025, a 50% Increase Since 2021. Roughly 190,000 of These individuals Benefit Directly From the Enhanced Tax Credits and Could See Their Premiums Increase by as Much as 95% in 2026 if No Action Is Taken.Letters Notifying Enrollees of These Potential Increases Will Begin to Be Mailed Next Week.

To Counteract These Expected Increases, Governor Moore and the Maryland General Assembly Expanded the State’s Insurance Subsidies Program During the 2025 Legislative Session. This Expansion Will Provide Additional assistance to those Purchasing Health Insurance Through Maryland Health Connection Who Earn Less Than 400% of the Federal Poverty Level. The Maryland Health Connection Has Also launched a New “Get an Estimate” Tool to Help Residents Compare Plans and Anticipate Costs.

Voices from County Leadership

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich Expressed Gratitude for the Governor’s Leadership and condemned the actions of those Who Threaten Access to Healthcare. Montgomery County Council President Kate Stewart Affirmed The County’s Commitment to Supporting Residents Impacted by the Shutdown. the Impending premium Increases Compound existing Challenges faced by Maryland Families, Including the Potential Loss of Healthcare Coverage for Nearly 250,000 Residents and Potential Cuts to Food Assistance for More Than 684,000 Individuals.

The Federal Government is the Largest Employer in Maryland, Wiht Approximately 269,000 Residents Employed by the Federal Government and Over 160,000 Federal Civilian Jobs located Within the State. previous Shutdowns Have Already Cost marylanders Significant Wages, and Continued federal Job Losses Could Further Jeopardize the State’s Economy.

Key Statistic	Value
Average Premium Increase (2026)	13.4%
Marylanders Enrolled in Marketplace (2025)	247,000
Marylanders Benefiting from Tax Credits	190,000
Potential Premium Increase (Without Tax Credits)	Up to 95%

Understanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA)

The Affordable Care Act, signed into law in 2010, aimed to expand health insurance coverage to more Americans. It established health insurance marketplaces, provided subsidies to help individuals and families afford coverage, and expanded Medicaid eligibility. The ACA has significantly reduced the number of uninsured Americans, but its future remains subject to political and legal challenges. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, as of early 2024, the uninsured rate stands at around 8.3%.

Did You Know? The ACA also includes provisions prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions.

Pro Tip: Explore all available options during open enrollment to find the plan that best fits your needs and budget. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified navigator.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is causing healthcare premiums to increase in Maryland? The primary driver is the potential expiration of federal tax credits implemented during the biden administration, coupled with the current federal government shutdown.
• What is maryland doing to mitigate the premium increases? Governor Moore and the Maryland General Assembly have expanded the state’s insurance subsidies program to help lower costs for eligible residents.
• How can I estimate my 2026 health insurance costs? Maryland Health Connection offers a “Get an Estimate” tool on their website to help you compare plans and potential savings.
• What resources are available for federal employees impacted by the shutdown? The state is providing assistance with job searching, unemployment insurance, and access to other essential services.
• Where can I find more facts about the Affordable Care Act? Visit HealthCare.gov for thorough information.
• What is the role of the Maryland insurance Administration? The Maryland Insurance Administration regulates the health insurance market and approves premium rates.
• How will the shutdown affect medicaid and other federal programs? The Moore-Miller Administration is working to ensure these programs continue operating, assuming federal reimbursement.

What are your thoughts on the correlation between the federal shutdown and healthcare costs? Do you believe more shoudl be done to expand access to affordable healthcare?

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How does Governor Moore’s plan ensure uninterrupted Medicaid coverage for Maryland residents during the federal shutdown?

Navigating Healthcare Access Amidst Federal Uncertainty

As the federal government faces a continuing shutdown, Maryland residents relying on federally-funded healthcare programs are understandably concerned. Governor Wes Moore has proactively announced a series of measures to bolster state health insurance resources and provide critical support, ensuring continuity of care for vulnerable populations. This article details the specific actions taken, available resources, and how Marylanders can navigate the current situation. We’ll cover everything from Medicaid support to Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollment assistance and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) protections.

Expanded State Funding for Critical Healthcare Programs

Governor Moore’s plan centers around leveraging state funds to mitigate the impact of the federal shutdown on key healthcare programs. This includes:

* Medicaid Coverage: Maryland Medicaid, known as Medical assistance, will continue uninterrupted for the vast majority of its 1.4 million enrollees.The state has allocated emergency funding to cover potential federal shortfalls, guaranteeing access to essential medical services. This is particularly crucial for individuals wiht pre-existing conditions and those requiring ongoing treatment.

* CHIP Protection: the state’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) will also receive bolstered funding, ensuring continued health coverage for approximately 45,000 Maryland children. This prevents disruptions in pediatric care, immunizations, and preventative services.

* Supplemental nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) & Healthcare Link: Recognizing the interconnectedness of food security and health,the state is reinforcing partnerships between SNAP providers and healthcare facilities to address the social determinants of health.

Enhanced Enrollment Assistance for the affordable Care Act

With potential disruptions to federal healthcare programs,Governor Moore is urging eligible Marylanders to explore options through the Maryland Health Connection,the state’s official ACA marketplace.

* Special Enrollment Period: While not a federally mandated special enrollment period directly tied to the shutdown, the state is actively promoting increased outreach and navigator assistance to help individuals understand their options and enroll in qualified health plans.

* Financial Assistance: Subsidies and tax credits remain available to eligible individuals and families, making ACA plans more affordable. Maryland Health Connection is offering extended hours and increased staffing to assist with applications and plan selection.

* Navigators & Certified Submission Counselors: A network of trained navigators and certified application counselors are available statewide to provide free, unbiased assistance with enrollment.Find local help through the Maryland Health Connection website.

Resources for Federal Employees and Contractors

Federal employees and contractors in Maryland are particularly vulnerable during a government shutdown.Governor Moore’s plan includes specific support for this group:

* Temporary Medicaid Eligibility: Federal employees and contractors who lose their employer-sponsored health insurance due to the shutdown might potentially be eligible for temporary Medicaid coverage. The state has streamlined the application process for this group.

* COBRA Assistance: Data and resources regarding COBRA continuation coverage are being disseminated through state agencies and employee assistance programs.

* Unemployment Benefits: while not directly health-related, access to unemployment benefits can definitely help individuals maintain financial stability and afford healthcare costs.

Addressing Potential Impacts on Healthcare providers

The shutdown also poses challenges for healthcare providers who rely on federal reimbursements.

* Expedited Claims Processing: The state is working to expedite claims processing for providers who serve Medicaid and CHIP patients, minimizing financial disruptions.

* Low-Interest Loan Programs: Exploring options for low-interest loan programs to assist providers facing cash flow challenges due to delayed federal payments.

* Telehealth expansion: Encouraging the continued expansion of telehealth services to improve access to care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Telemedicine is a key component of maintaining healthcare access during times of crisis.

Understanding Yoru Healthcare Options: A Swift Guide

Program	Impact of Shutdown	Maryland’s Response
Medicaid (Medical Assistance)	Minimal disruption	state funding ensures continued coverage
CHIP	Potential funding delays	state funding protects coverage for children
ACA Marketplace (Maryland Health Connection)	No direct impact, but increased demand	Enhanced enrollment assistance and outreach
Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)	Potential disruption if shutdown is prolonged	Temporary Medicaid eligibility and COBRA assistance

Benefits of Proactive State Action

Governor Moore’s swift response offers several key benefits:

* Continuity of Care: Prevents disruptions in essential medical services for vulnerable populations.

* Reduced Anxiety: Provides reassurance to Marylanders concerned about losing health coverage.

* Economic Stability: Supports healthcare providers and minimizes economic fallout from the shutdown.

* Public Health Protection: Safeguards public health by ensuring access to preventative care and treatment.

Practical Tips for Maryland Residents

* Check Your Coverage: Confirm your current health insurance status and understand your benefits.

* Explore Maryland Health Connection: Visit https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/ to explore ACA plan options and financial assistance.

* Contact a Navigator: Get free, unbiased assistance with enrollment from a trained navigator.

* Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the Governor’s office and the Maryland Department of Health.

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