Louisiana is in for a rude awakening as the U.S. Congress finally votes to reopen the federal government.

Basic government functions may be funded again. Federal dollars that make up more than 50% of our state's budget may flow once again. But what's happening is quite likely going to make the lives of many more miserable as Louisianans pray "Thank you, Lord" for this temporary respite while also praying "Please, Lord," as the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits in place since the COVID pandemic will expire at year's end if Congress doesn't extend them.

Let's be clear: Reducing health care benefits not only hurts the individuals who rely on them. It can cause large hospitals to reduce specialty services and can cause small, rural hospitals to close.

No matter what

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