The federal government has shut down after lawmakers failed to pass a new budget. Congress has been here before. But this time, the fight is over something that reaches right into family checkbooks — the cost of health insurance.

The Sticking Point

Democrats are refusing to support a temporary budget unless it includes extended subsidies for people who buy coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Those subsidies, increased during the pandemic, help families pay their monthly premiums. Without them, many Georgians would see their insurance costs double or even triple when new rates take effect. Families that use the health care marketplace, will face sticker shock when they sign up for plans next month.

Republicans argue that Washington cannot afford to keep paying for the higher subsidie

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