Political friction is increasing over the imminent expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies, tax credits that are critical for maintaining affordable health insurance coverage for millions, including about 50,000 to 60,000 West Virginians.

West Virginia is expected to be hit hard, possibly seeing some of the largest rate increases in the country if the enhanced credits are not renewed.

“Something needs to be done here. People are going to be asked to pay thousands of dollars more,” said Brendan Buck, a spokesman for the Keep Americans Covered coalition that includes patient groups, hospitals, doctors and nurses trying to keep the tax-credit rules in place.

The subsidies are scheduled to expire on Dec. 31. The issue is also a key part of demands by congressional Democrats as the feder

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