They’re uninsured after Obamacare became too costly. They’re far from alone.

Ross and Rebecca Tobiassen, a couple from Sugar Grove, North Carolina, have relied on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for health insurance since 2014. However, they canceled their coverage in December when their monthly premiums soared from $130 to over $550. The Tobiassens, who run a small auto shop, are among many Americans affected by the expiration of enhanced tax credits that had made ACA plans more affordable. These credits, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic under the American Rescue Plan Act, significantly reduced premiums and boosted ACA enrollment. With the credits gone, enrollment is expected to drop from over 22 million to as low as 16.5 million in 2026. North Carolina saw a 22% decrease in signups, the largest in the nation. The Tobiassens’ daughters remain on Medicaid, but Rebecca feels the government is neglecting families like hers. The couple’s insurance had not fully covered their medical needs, highlighting the challenges faced by many in similar situations. QUESTION: How might the rising costs of health insurance impact families’ decisions about their healthcare and financial priorities?