The U.S. House of Representatives today passed a continuing resolution that would keep the federal government running through November 21, 2025, and extend many expiring health care programs — except the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits.

The measure would continue funding for several programs set to expire, including pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities, community health centers, physician workforce programs (such as the National Health Service Corps and Teaching Health Center Primary Care GME Program), the Medicare Hospital at Home program, and Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital payments, among others.

The House approved the measure on a 217–212 vote, largely along party lines. It now moves to the U.S. Senate, where it faces steep opposition from Democratic leaders who have said they will not support any funding bill that does not also extend the enhanced ACA premium tax credits that help keep coverage affordable for millions of Americans. Senate Democrats have released their own competing proposal that includes the tax credit extension, but it currently lacks the bipartisan support needed to advance.

Republicans have said they want to continue negotiating on the tax credits separately from the continuing resolution. Without action, as many as 2 million Californians would face average premium increases of 97% or lose their coverage entirely.

The California Medical Association (CMA) is urging physicians to contact their Members of Congress to extend all expiring health care programs, including the ACA premium tax credits that are vital to California’s working families and small businesses.

Urge Congress to Protect Patients and Physicians

Congress must act before key health care programs expire. Without action, patients will lose health coverage, seniors will struggle to find physicians, and programs that expand care in underserved communities will be at risk.

Why It Matters:

• Health care coverage: Nearly 2 million Californians will face skyrocketing premiums or lose coverage if federal tax credits expire. Congress must extend the premium tax credits to keep coverage affordable.
• Medicare: Physician payments have fallen 33% since 2001, forcing many physicians to limit their participation. Congress must increase Medicare physician payments to ensure seniors can find a doctor.
• Telehealth: Pandemic-era waivers that allow vulnerable patients to access virtual care are set to expire. Congress must extend these waivers to preserve access to care.
• Prior authorization: Medicare Advantage delays too often deny or postpone needed care. Congress must pass legislation to reform prior authorization so patients get timely treatment.
• Physician workforce: Physician shortages are growing, especially in underserved areas. Congress must extend and strengthen programs that support physician training and placement.

Your voice is critical. Click here to send a message to your Senators and Representatives urging them to extend expiring programs and protect patients’ access to care. A prewritten letter from the physician perspective is provided—please customize it to explain how these issues affect your practice and your patients.