Overview of Recent Health Policy Proposals
Idaho’s senior U.S. senator, Mike Crapo, introduced new federal health policy legislation in December 2025 as part of broader tax and budget negotiations in Congress.
The proposal follows ongoing debate over the future of Affordable Care Act tax credits and Medicaid-related funding. The measure did not advance to a final vote in the U.S. Senate after failing to reach the required 60-vote threshold.
Key Elements of the Proposed Plan
According to legislative details discussed publicly, the proposal included several structural changes to how health coverage could be accessed:
- Transitioning certain individuals into Affordable Care Act insurance plans.
- Offering a $1,000 contribution toward a health savings account.
- Adjusting federal rules governing insurance market participation.
- Revisiting federal limitations tied to Medicaid funding eligibility.
The proposal did not advance in the Senate, but similar policy concepts may reemerge as negotiations continue.
Health Care Costs Remain a Central Issue
Health care affordability remains a major concern for Idaho families and policymakers. Publicly cited national cost figures referenced during the debate include:
- Average three-day hospital stay: approximately $30,000.
- Monthly costs for some cancer treatments: around $12,000.
- Treatment for a broken leg: up to $7,500.
- Monthly diabetes-related medical expenses: exceeding $1,000.
- Diagnostic imaging costs:
- MRI: approximately $1,300.
- Chest CT scan: more than $700.
These figures continue to influence discussions around insurance design and cost-sharing structures.
Affordable Care Act Tax Credits Under Review
Separately, the U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to consider a three-year extension of expanded Affordable Care Act tax credits in early 2026.
The extension currently has enough support to pass the House. If approved, the measure would return to the Senate for further consideration.
Senator Crapo is expected to participate in that debate when the legislation reaches the upper chamber.
What Happens Next
- The Senate proposal introduced in December did not advance.
- The House is expected to vote on ACA tax credit extensions.
- Any approved House legislation would require Senate action.
- Health care affordability and insurance access remain unresolved policy issues for Idaho and the nation.
Future congressional negotiations will determine whether any of these provisions become law.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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