It’s open enrollment season, Texas! This time of year brings not just the holidays but also an opportunity to secure something truly invaluable—health insurance. With nearly 5 million Texans living without coverage, the stakes have never been higher, but the good news is that millions could qualify for free or low-cost plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace.  

As the state with the highest uninsured rate in the nation—an eye-opening 16.4%—Texas is facing a healthcare crisis that demands attention. Thankfully, organizations like Texas 2036 are shining a spotlight on the solutions available, and this year’s open enrollment period, running through January 15, 2025, is packed with promise.  

ACA Marketplace: A Lifeline for Millions

For many Texans, the idea of affordable health insurance feels out of reach. But here’s the reality: nearly 2 million uninsured Texans, or 40% of the uninsured population, qualify for free or heavily subsidized plans. These include ACA Marketplace plans and children’s programs like Medicaid and CHIP.  

Last year, Texas saw a record-breaking surge in ACA enrollments, with nearly 3.5 million residents securing coverage—a jump of over 1 million from the previous year. This momentum underscores a growing awareness of accessible healthcare options, but the work isn’t done yet.  

David Leebron, president and CEO of Texas 2036, puts it plainly:  

 _“In a state as dynamic and economically successful as Texas, access to affordable health insurance should be within everyone’s reach.”_  

Affordable Premiums for Texans Across the State

Wondering what you’d actually pay? Texas 2036’s analysis shows that thanks to federal subsidies, coverage is more affordable than ever. For instance, a single 40-year-old adult earning 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (about $37,650 annually) can find plans with net monthly premiums that are shockingly low:  

- *Harris County: Bronze plans for $0, Gold for $62.12, and Silver for $115.35  

- Bexar County: Bronze plans for $0, Gold for $54.42, and Silver for $114.95  

- El Paso County: Bronze plans for $0, Gold for $49.59, and Silver for $115.22  

Similar deals are available in other counties like Dallas, Travis, and Hidalgo. Many residents qualify for $0 bronze plans, making comprehensive coverage accessible without breaking the bank.  

Why Are Gold Plans Sometimes Cheaper Than Silver? 

If you’ve browsed the ACA Marketplace, you might’ve noticed something peculiar: gold plans can sometimes cost less than silver plans. Why? It’s due to a system called "silver-loading," which shifts the cost of added benefits for lower-income enrollees into the premiums of silver plans. This process actually makes bronze and gold plans more affordable for many enrollees.  

This system was further improved in 2021 when Texas passed Senate Bill 1296, a bipartisan effort that aligned premiums with federal subsidies. The result? Dramatically lower costs for hundreds of thousands of Texans.  

Breaking Down Barriers: The Real Challenge is Awareness

Here’s the catch: despite these incredible opportunities, many eligible Texans remain uninsured. Why? Lack of awareness.  

Research from Texas 2036 reveals that many Texans either don’t know affordable plans exist, mistakenly believe they earn too much to qualify, or have outdated assumptions about the cost of coverage.  

Charles Miller, Director of Health and Economic Mobility Policy at Texas 2036, emphasizes the importance of education:  

 _“Too often, Texans believe affordable health coverage is out of reach. But with free or low-price plans available, we have a powerful way to reduce our state’s uninsured rate next year.”_  

Act Now: Open Enrollment Ends January 15, 2025  

Time is ticking! Open enrollment for ACA Marketplace plans is underway and closes on January 15, 2025. Whether you’re uninsured or just looking for better options, now is the time to explore what’s available.  

Ready to secure your coverage? Visit HealthCare.gov to compare plans, calculate subsidies, and enroll. Affordable healthcare is within reach—it’s up to you to take the first step.  

Why This Matters to Houston

As one of the most dynamic cities in Texas, Houston embodies resilience, diversity, and opportunity. Yet, healthcare disparities remain a critical challenge. By taking advantage of the ACA Marketplace, Houston residents can not only protect their health but also strengthen their communities.  

Let’s rewrite the narrative—affordable healthcare is not a luxury; it’s a right. Don’t wait. Explore your options and help Texas move closer to a healthier, more equitable future.