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New ACA Plans Expand Access Amid Premium Increases

9/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will expand eligibility for Affordable Care Act (ACA) catastrophic health insurance plans starting November 1, 2025.
This initiative aims to improve access to low-premium, high-deductible plans amid anticipated premium increases for 2026.
New eligibility allows adults over 400% of the federal poverty level to qualify for hardship exemptions.
Arkansas insurers propose a 36.1% average premium increase, prompting consumers to seek more affordable options.
Enrollment in catastrophic plans has halved nationwide since 2017, and Arkansas currently lacks these plans.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will expand eligibility for Affordable Care Act (ACA) catastrophic health insurance plans starting November 1, 2025.
This initiative aims to improve access to low-premium, high-deductible plans amid anticipated premium increases for 2026.
New eligibility allows adults over 400% of the federal poverty level to qualify for hardship exemptions.
Arkansas insurers propose a 36.1% average premium increase, prompting consumers to seek more affordable options.
Enrollment in catastrophic plans has halved nationwide since 2017, and Arkansas currently lacks these plans.