SPOKANE, Wash. — About 20 million Americans and 80,000 Washingtonians may see skyrocketing insurance premiums in the new year, as Affordable Care Act (ACA) rates are set to significantly increase in just a matter of days.

Federal subsidies of the ACA, also known as Obamacare, keep costs lower for most people. They're expiring at the end of the year. After two Republican-backed alternative plans failed to pass the U.S. Senate on Thursday, Congress remains divided on how to move forward.

The tax credits help people afford private insurance through Washington’s Health Benefit Exchange.

In September, Governor Bob Ferguson said at least 80,000 Washingtonians could be priced out and lose their coverage if the credits are left to expire. He went on to say this would only add to the existing he

See Full Page