North Dakota Health Insurance Premiums to Sharply Rise as Tax Credits Expire, Commissioner Says

Jon Godfread, via North Dakota Insurance and Securities

North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread warns about 30,000 North Dakotans face sharply higher health insurance premiums if Congress doesn’t renew enhanced tax credits by year’s end. Godfread says premiums could jump between $378 and $3,735 depending on income, with some paying double, triple, or even quadruple last year’s rates. He estimates 10,000 may go uninsured rather than pay the higher costs. The enhanced tax credits, expanded during COVID, expire December 31st, just as open enrollment begins November 1st, according to Jacob Orledge from the North Dakota Monitor. Godfread worries consumers shopping early will see sticker shock and not return even if Congress acts later. The American Cancer Society says the credits are crucial for patients undergoing treatment and preventive screenings. Senate Democrats want tax credit renewal tied to government funding, while North Dakota’s congressional delegation says the issues should be addressed separately.