Maine officials warn that rising healthcare costs and uncertainty over federal policies will drive health insurance premiums higher starting in 2026.
Individuals purchasing plans through the state’s online marketplace, CoverME.gov, could see an average premium increase of 24%. Rates for small employers are expected to rise nearly 18%.
Rachel Collamore, consumer assistance program manager at Consumers for Affordable Health Care in Augusta, said the possible loss of enhanced subsidies for low-income households will raise costs for everyone.
“It’s going to hit people in the wallet,” Collamore said. “We expect it may cause some people to drop out of the market.”
Fewer insured residents could mean less access to preventative care, more emergency room visits, and greater strain on the healthcare system.
Congress has until the end of the year to decide whether to extend the subsidies. Most Republicans argue that the subsidies are too costly and increase the national debt.
Currently, nearly 65,000 Mainers are enrolled in health plans through CoverME.gov, with enhanced subsidies reducing some premiums by an average of over 40%.
Open enrollment in the marketplace begins in November. Insurance officials urge residents to review and compare plans ahead of time.
Collamore emphasized that coverage is essential for healthy communities. “Healthy neighbors are good neighbors, and healthy communities are prosperous communities,” she said. She added that anything that limits people’s access to care is a shared concern.
She encouraged Mainers to contact their elected officials to advocate for keeping enhanced subsidies. Those with questions about coverage or affordability can call the free Consumers for Affordable Healthcare hotline, where marketplace enrollment experts are available five days a week.
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