Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
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Shutdown Update: MOAA, Fellow Advocacy Groups Join Forces
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following news on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Shutdown Update: MOAA, Fellow Advocacy Groups Join Forces
By Kevin Lilley
MOAA joined fellow organizations representing tens of millions of members of the uniformed services community in recent pushes to protect service-members and families as the federal funding lapse enters its second week.
The shutdown "has direct and devastating consequences for those who serve and have served, as well as their families," reads an Oct. 3 letter to House and Senate leadership signed by MOAA
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following news on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Shutdown Update: MOAA, Fellow Advocacy Groups Join Forces
By Kevin Lilley
MOAA joined fellow organizations representing tens of millions of members of the uniformed services community in recent pushes to protect service-members and families as the federal funding lapse enters its second week.
The shutdown "has direct and devastating consequences for those who serve and have served, as well as their families," reads an Oct. 3 letter to House and Senate leadership signed by MOAAand nearly two dozen other groups. The letter (https://www.moaa.org/contentassets/d20668c19e5342f2a5ea4d658dcc544e/2025-mso_vso_shutdown-letter_final.pdf) seeks immediate passage of the Pay Our Troops Act, which would ensure service-members receive their compensation while budget negotiations continue. Service-members were paid Oct. 1, but would not receive Oct. 15 checks without this legislation or the reopening of the government.
"Regardless of the broader funding debates, the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families must not suffer because Congress cannot agree on funding the government," the letter reads.
The bipartisan legislation (H.R. 5401) introduced Sept. 16 by Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-Va.) had 122 cosponsors as of Oct. 7. It would secure pay for all uniformed members of the armed services (to include the Coast Guard) along with civilians and contractors supporting those in uniform.
Why Does MOAA Support the Pay Our Troops Act?
Even though the country is both politically and socially divided, it should be clear that under our nonpartisan approach at MOAA we will, have always, and should always support our uniformed servicemembers, veterans, family members and survivors regardless of what party controls each branch of government. We've been consistent in demonstrating that over the years.
Irrespective of personal feelings or political affiliation, we hope all MOAA members can unite in support of that idea and the need to ensure our servicemembers get paid on Oct. 15 and every pay period after that.
Our current call to action reflects MOAA's nonpartisan mission and long-standing commitment to the well-being of the uniformed services community. It does not represent a position for or against any current federal officeholder or political party, but rather a reaffirmation of our core purpose: to ensure that earned benefits are honored and protected.
Paying ALL Who Serve
The Pay Our Troops Act, along with similar legislation introduced in both chambers earlier in 2025, does not provide protections to members of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps or the NOAA Corps. MOAA joined another group of stakeholders in an Oct. 7 letter to Kiggans and to Sen. Dan Sullivan, the Alaska Republican who introduced the Pay Our Military Act of 2025, seeking a technical amendment to these bills as a way to include these officers.
"These men and women in USPHS and NOAA, like their counterparts in the Armed Forces, are sworn to serve and defend our nation in times of crisis and directly support the Armed Forces," the letter states, noting the work of USPHS officers as medical support for the Coast Guard and NOAA Corps members providing significant resources to aid in Navy and Marine Corps operations.
"In the event of a government shutdown, these personnel must not be excluded from the protections this bill offers," states the letter, authored by the Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Service and signed by MOAA and more than a dozen other organizations.
MOAA will continue its work to support all members of the uniformed service community, helping ensure those in uniform do not shoulder the burden of failed budget talks. Make your voice heard today, and visit MOAA.org/news for ongoing updates on the federal funding lapse.
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October 3, 2025
The Honorable Mike Johnson, Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives
The Honorable John Thune, Majority Leader, United States Senate
The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries, Minority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
The Honorable Charles Schumer, Minority Leader, United States Senate
Dear Speaker Johnson, Leader Thune, Leader Jeffries, and Leader Schumer:
On behalf of the nearly 20 million service members, veterans, and their families that we represent, we write to you today with an urgent request that you prioritize passing all appropriations bills necessary to fund the government for the full Fiscal Year 2026. The repeated reliance on continuing resolutions (CRs) and brinkmanship leading to potential shutdowns inflicts predictable, severe, and unnecessary harm on our military, veterans, their families, and the American people, while jeopardizing our economy and our national security.
A government shutdown is not simply a political or fiscal issue -- it has direct and devastating consequences for those who serve and have served, as well as their families. Recent survey data shows that 1 in 3 military families have less than $3,000 in savings, which can cause them to put expenses onto credit cards or to use payday loans during a shutdown. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports, approximately 1.2 million veterans, more than 20,000 active-duty military families, and 213,000 National Guard and Reserve families depend on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. Any disruption to federal funding threatens access to these benefits, pushing already vulnerable families into crisis.
A government shutdown is not a negotiation tactic; it is a failure of leadership that immediately halts critical services, disrupts economic stability, and casts uncertainty over millions of lives. Predictable funding is essential for effective federal operations, allowing agencies from defense to public health to plan, execute, and deliver services efficiently. We urge you to conclude this essential business now, putting aside partisan differences to complete the full appropriations process and provide the stability the nation deserves.
Furthermore, we ask that Congress immediately ensure the financial stability of our dedicated service members and their families by protecting their pay during a government shutdown. Regardless of the broader funding debates, the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families must not suffer because Congress cannot agree on funding the government. We, therefore, urge swift passage of the bipartisan Pay Our Troops Act, which guarantees that military personnel -- including Coast Guard personnel -- receive their paychecks on time, without interruption, in the event of any funding lapse. Our commitment to those who defend this nation must remain steadfast and non-negotiable.
The nation is watching. We urge you to act with urgency and responsibility this moment demands.
Respectfully,
Air Force Sergeants Association
AMVETS
Blinded Veterans Association
Blue Star Families
Burn Pits 360
Chief Warrant and Warrant Officers Association, United States Coast Guard
Code of Support Foundation
Fleet Reserve Association
Gold Star Spouses of America, Inc.
Hire Heroes USA
Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Military Family Advisory Network
Military Officers Association of America
National Military Family Association
Project Sanctuary
Secure Families Initiative
Service Women's Action Network
The Enlisted Association (TREA)
Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors (TAPS)
United States Army Warrant Officers Association
U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers & Enlisted Association
United States Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce
Veterans of Foreign Wars
With Honor Action
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About the Author
Kevin Lilley
Lilley serves as MOAA's digital content manager. His duties include producing, editing, and managing content for a variety of platforms, with a concentration on The MOAA Newsletter and MOAA.org. Follow him on X: @KRLilley
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Original text here: https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2025-news-articles/recommended-reads/shutdown-update-moaa,-fellow-advocacy-groups-join-forces/
[Category: National Defense]
Pain and Antidepressant Drug Combo Linked to Increased Seizure Risk in Older Adults
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Oct. 9 -- The American Academy of Neurology issued the following news release:
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Pain and antidepressant drug combo linked to increased seizure risk in older adults
Highlights
* When taken together, the pain medication tramadol and certain antidepressants may raise seizure risk in older adults, according to a new study.
* Researchers studied people living in nursing homes taking tramadol and some antidepressants that inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme called CYP2D6 inhibitors.
* These antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, paroxetine and bupropion, block the CYP2D6 enzyme
... Show Full Article
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Oct. 9 -- The American Academy of Neurology issued the following news release:
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Pain and antidepressant drug combo linked to increased seizure risk in older adults
Highlights
* When taken together, the pain medication tramadol and certain antidepressants may raise seizure risk in older adults, according to a new study.
* Researchers studied people living in nursing homes taking tramadol and some antidepressants that inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme called CYP2D6 inhibitors.
* These antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, paroxetine and bupropion, block the CYP2D6 enzymeneeded to metabolize tramadol.
* People taking tramadol and CYP2D6 inhibitors had up to a 9% higher seizure risk than people taking tramadol and antidepressants that do not inhibit the enzyme.
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When older adults living in nursing homes are prescribed the pain medicine tramadol alongside certain antidepressants, their risk of seizures may go up, according to a study published October 8, 2025, in Neurology(R), the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. While this study found a link between using the medications together and an increased risk of seizures, it does not prove one causes the other.
Tramadol is an opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain in adults. Some antidepressants that inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme, called CYP2D6 inhibitors, can interfere with how the body metabolizes tramadol. When the CYP2D6 enzyme is blocked, tramadol is not metabolized properly and may build up in the body, potentially increasing the risk of side effects like seizures. Common CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressants include fluoxetine, paroxetine and bupropion.
"We found a modest but measurable increase in the risk of seizures when tramadol was taken with antidepressants that inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme," said study author Yu-Jung Jenny Wei, PhD, of The Ohio State University in Columbus. "This risk was consistent whether the antidepressant or tramadol was started first."
Researchers analyzed 10 years of Medicare data to identify 70,156 nursing home residents age 65 and older who had been prescribed both tramadol and an antidepressant.
They divided participants into two groups based on which drugs they took first. Of participants, 11,162 people took tramadol first and then an antidepressant with it, while 58,994 people took an antidepressant first and then added tramadol.
Seizure rates for people who took tramadol first were 16 seizures per 100 person-years, and for people who took antidepressants first, the rate was 20 seizures per 100 person-years. This means for every 100 people who used both tramadol and an antidepressant followed for one year, about 16 or 20 received a seizure diagnosis.
In both groups, researchers then compared seizure rates between those who took tramadol with CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressants and those who took tramadol with antidepressants that do not inhibit the enzyme. In those who took tramadol first and added an antidepressant, the rate was 18 seizures per 100 person-years for those taking CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressants compared to 16 seizures per 100 person-years in people taking other antidepressants. In those who took antidepressants first and added tramadol, the rate was 22 seizures per 100 person-years for those taking CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressants compared to 20 seizures per 100 person-years in people taking other antidepressants.
To help ensure the differences were not due to other health issues, the researchers adjusted for factors such as pain levels, depression symptoms, physical function and cognitive ability.
After adjustments, for people who took tramadol first, seizure risk was 9% higher when taking it with a CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressant compared to with an antidepressant that did not inhibit this enzyme. For those who took an antidepressant first and added tramadol, the risk was about 6% higher for people who took a CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressant compared to people who took an antidepressant that did not inhibit the enzyme.
To test whether this interaction was specific to tramadol, the researchers repeated the analysis using hydrocodone, another opioid pain reliever that is unlikely to cause seizure risk when used with antidepressants. No increased seizure risk was observed with hydrocodone and CYP2D6-inhibiting antidepressants.
"These findings underscore the need for careful prescribing practices, especially for older adults with complex health conditions," said Wei. "Doctors should be aware of potential seizure risks when prescribing tramadol with antidepressants, particularly CYP2D6 inhibitors. Given how commonly both are prescribed to older adults, these interactions may be more important than previously thought."
A limitation of the study was that medication data came from prescription records, which did not confirm whether patients took the drugs as directed.
This research was supported by the National Institute on Aging.
Discover more about brain health at BrainandLife.org (R), from the American Academy of Neurology. This resource also offers a website, podcast, and books that connect patients, caregivers and anyone interested in brain health with the most trusted information, straight from the world's leading experts in brain health. Follow Brain & Life(R) on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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The American Academy of Neurology is the leading voice in brain health. As the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals with more than 40,000 members, the AAN provides access to the latest news, science and research affecting neurology for patients, caregivers, physicians and professionals alike. The AAN's mission is to enhance member career fulfillment and promote brain health for all. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine.
Explore the latest in neurological disease and brain health, from the minds at the AAN at AAN.com or find us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
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Original text here: https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5288
[Category: Medical]
OBL Advocates for Stability and Collaboration in Ohio's Homebuyer Plus Program
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 9 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news:
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OBL Advocates for Stability and Collaboration in Ohio's Homebuyer Plus Program
The Ohio Bankers League (OBL) and Community Bankers Association of Ohio (CBAO) jointly sent a letter to Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague expressing serious concerns about newly proposed changes to the Ohio Homebuyer Plus Program (OHP). While OBL appreciates the Treasurer's continued collaboration with the banking industry, the letter highlights significant challenges these proposed modifications could create for participating banks and
... Show Full Article
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 9 -- The Ohio Bankers League issued the following news:
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OBL Advocates for Stability and Collaboration in Ohio's Homebuyer Plus Program
The Ohio Bankers League (OBL) and Community Bankers Association of Ohio (CBAO) jointly sent a letter to Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague expressing serious concerns about newly proposed changes to the Ohio Homebuyer Plus Program (OHP). While OBL appreciates the Treasurer's continued collaboration with the banking industry, the letter highlights significant challenges these proposed modifications could create for participating banks andthe customers they serve.
Since its launch in early 2024, the Homebuyer Plus Program has been a resounding success, helping tens of thousands of Ohioans save toward the purchase of a home. The program allows the Treasurer's Office (TOS) to place deposits with participating financial institutions at below-market rates, enabling banks to offer savers premium interest rates and additional benefits. Nearly 23,000 accounts have been opened to date, reflecting the strong appeal of the program and its positive impact on Ohio's housing market.
However, as the program has grown rapidly, TOS has introduced new proposals aimed at managing its scale and financial exposure. The most recent proposals include two major changes:
1. Increasing the interest rate on "excess funding" accounts from 50% to 75% of the BidOhio rate beginning in 2026; and
2. Requiring participating banks to return all excess deposits by January 1, 2027.
In its correspondence to the Treasurer's Office, the Associations conveyed that while both changes are concerning, the requirement to return nearly $1 billion in deposits would have the most severe consequences. Such a withdrawal, the letter explains, could create a liquidity strain across the industry--particularly for community and mid-sized institutions. A sudden removal of this funding could require banks to reduce lending, liquidate investments, or significantly adjust their balance sheets, which in turn could limit credit availability for consumers and small businesses.
The letter also notes that the issue of excess deposits will naturally resolve over time as initial Homebuyer Plus accounts close through home purchases or reach their five-year maturity. Allowing that process to unfold would avoid unnecessary disruption while still addressing long-term program balance.
OBL also raised concerns about the broader financial and operational impact of the proposed rate increase. Many participating banks already offer premium savings rates--sometimes two to three times higher than market averages--along with deposit bonuses for customers who reach their savings goals. A higher state charge on excess funding would reduce the resources available to sustain these benefits, potentially making the program less appealing to both banks and savers.
Beyond the financial implications, OBL emphasized that predictability and stability are critical to maintaining confidence in the program. Repeated and retroactive policy shifts have forced banks to make costly operational and compliance changes, update disclosures, retrain staff, and reconfigure systems on short notice. Over time, these disruptions risk eroding trust between the banking industry and the Treasurer's Office, undermining what has otherwise been a successful public-private partnership.
OBL's message to the Treasurer's Office is clear: the program's success should be viewed as an opportunity, not a problem. With thoughtful collaboration and careful policy adjustments, Homebuyer Plus can continue to thrive--supporting Ohio savers, strengthening financial institutions, and promoting homeownership across the state.
OBL will continue to work closely with state leaders to advocate for balanced solutions that preserve this program's success while protecting the financial stability of participating banks.
View letter here: https://www.ohiobankersleague.com/Portals/40/Files/GRC/OBL%20CBAO%20Joint%20Letter%20on%20Proposed%20Changes%20FINAL%2010.3.25.pdf?ver=2025-10-08-145540-480
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Original text here: https://www.ohiobankersleague.com/News-Information/Headlines/View/ArticleId/28711/OBL-Advocates-for-Stability-and-Collaboration-in-Ohio-s-Homebuyer-Plus-Program
[Category: Financial Services]
National Retail Federation: Monthly Imports Expected to Drop Below 2 Million TEU as Tariffs Continue to Rise
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Monthly Imports Expected to Drop Below 2 Million TEU as Tariffs Continue to Rise
With most holiday merchandise already on hand and tariffs continuing to rise, monthly import cargo volume at the nation's major container ports is expected to fall below the 2 million TEU mark for the remainder of the year, according to the Global Port Tracker report (https://nrf.com/topics/global-port-tracker) released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.
"This year's
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The National Retail Federation posted the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Monthly Imports Expected to Drop Below 2 Million TEU as Tariffs Continue to Rise
With most holiday merchandise already on hand and tariffs continuing to rise, monthly import cargo volume at the nation's major container ports is expected to fall below the 2 million TEU mark for the remainder of the year, according to the Global Port Tracker report (https://nrf.com/topics/global-port-tracker) released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.
"This year'speak season has come and gone, largely due to retailers frontloading imports ahead of reciprocal tariffs taking effect," NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. "New sectoral tariffs continue to be announced, but most retailers are well-stocked for the holiday season and doing as much as they can to shield their customers from the costs of tariffs for as long as they can."
The latest tariffs -- 25% on upholstered furniture regardless of country and the same rate on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities -- are set to take effect next week and increase in January. And a tariff increase on imports from China that was delayed by 90 days in August is scheduled to go into effect Nov. 10, unless a deal is reached or President Donald Trump decides on another delay.
"Ongoing volatility in U.S. tariff policy is creating significant economic uncertainty, with trade volumes expected to see unpredictable shifts over the next four to six months," Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. "Many large companies preemptively imported goods to build up inventories, but as those stockpiles are depleted, the full inflationary impact of the tariffs will become apparent."
U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.32 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units -- one 20-foot container or its equivalent -- in August. That was down 2.9% from July's 2.39 million TEU -- the peak month for the year -- but up 0.1% year over year.
Ports have not yet reported numbers for September, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.12 million TEU, down 6.8% year over year.
October is forecast at 1.97 million TEU, down 12.3% year over year, and November at 1.75 million TEU, down 19.2%. December is forecast at 1.72 million TEU, down 19.4% year over year for the slowest month since 1.62 million TEU in March 2023.
While the falling monthly totals are related to tariffs, the year-over-year percentage declines are both because of this year's early peak season and because imports in late 2024 were elevated by concerns over port strikes.
The first half of 2025 totaled 12.53 million TEU, up 3.7% year over year. The full year is forecast at 24.79 million TEU, down 2.9% from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.
January 2026 is forecast at 1.87 million TEU, down 16.1% year over year, and February 2026 is forecast at 1.77 million TEU, down 12.8%.
Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker or by calling (202) 783-7971. Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com.
As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF analyzes economic conditions affecting the industry through reports such as Global Port Tracker.
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About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation's largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs -- 55 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. nrf.com
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About Hackett Associates
Hackett Associates provides expert consulting, research and advisory services to the international maritime industry, government agencies and international institutions. www.hackettassociates.com
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Original text here: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/monthly-imports-expected-to-drop-below-2-million-teu-as-tariffs-continue-to-rise
[Category: Business]
MISMO Seeks Comment on Updated Business Glossary
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- MISMO, a subsidiary of the Mortgage Bankers Association, issued the following news:
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MISMO Seeks Comment on Updated Business Glossary
MISMO, the real estate finance industry's standards organization, today announced that it is seeking public comment on an updated version of the Business Glossary and associated User Guide (https://www.mismo.org/standards-resources/mismo-product/business-glossary-user-guide). The 30-day public comment period will run through November 7, 2025.
Recent updates incorporate terms from the MISMO Artificial Intelligence Glossary, key terminology
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- MISMO, a subsidiary of the Mortgage Bankers Association, issued the following news:
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MISMO Seeks Comment on Updated Business Glossary
MISMO, the real estate finance industry's standards organization, today announced that it is seeking public comment on an updated version of the Business Glossary and associated User Guide (https://www.mismo.org/standards-resources/mismo-product/business-glossary-user-guide). The 30-day public comment period will run through November 7, 2025.
Recent updates incorporate terms from the MISMO Artificial Intelligence Glossary, key terminologyrelated to Housing Counseling participants and practices, and terms associated with the MISMO Life of Loan Process Model related to Origination and Servicing. The update also introduces two new Term Types, "Outcome" and "Regulation", providing additional context and clarity to glossary entries, as well as a new Focus Area and Source for artificial intelligence related terms.
The MISMO Business Glossary is a collection of terms and definitions that draws from MISMO and external sources. It provides a common language to support consistent communication across the real estate finance industry, helping organizations streamline processes and improve data accuracy. The glossary includes definitions for business processes, business events, terms, calculations, documents, and forms.
The public comment period allows those who participated in the proposal at least 30-days' notice prior to final release to review and disclose any applicable Patent Rights (as defined by MISMO's 2018 Intellectual Property Rights Policy).
MISMO requests that any organization that may have any patent or patent applications, or other intellectual property rights that might be infringed upon by an organization that uses or is compliant with these proposed MISMO products to disclose them at this time in writing. All comments and disclosures are due by November 7, 2025, and should be directed to info@mismo.org.
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Original text here: https://www.mismo.org/about-MISMO/news/2025/10/08/mismo-seeks-comment-on-updated-business-glossary
[Category: Financial Services]
Headlines Nationwide Underscore the Urgency of Extending the Health Care Tax Credits
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- America's Health Insurance Plans posted the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Headlines Nationwide Underscore the Urgency of Extending the Health Care Tax Credits
With just weeks until open enrollment begins, news reports throughout the nation underscore the urgent need for Congressional action as soon as possible to extend the enhanced premium tax credits that have made comprehensive, high-quality health care coverage affordable for 22 million Americans.
ABC Tallahassee: "Rural Floridians face healthcare crisis as ACA tax credit expiration nears"
- "Cancer
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- America's Health Insurance Plans posted the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Headlines Nationwide Underscore the Urgency of Extending the Health Care Tax Credits
With just weeks until open enrollment begins, news reports throughout the nation underscore the urgent need for Congressional action as soon as possible to extend the enhanced premium tax credits that have made comprehensive, high-quality health care coverage affordable for 22 million Americans.
ABC Tallahassee: "Rural Floridians face healthcare crisis as ACA tax credit expiration nears"
- "Cancerpatients in rural North Florida face a new threat: the possible expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits and rising premiums ... Without the credits, average premiums could jump from about $888 a year to nearly $1,900."
- "'Florida is unique in this. We actually have the most people in the country, just in pure numbers, getting their insurance from the ACA marketplace. We're really unique. We want to protect these people and their insurance. I mean, for cancer patients especially, having insurance is one of the top indicators of your survival,' said Susan Harbin, senior government relations director with the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society says 43% of cancer patients who use the credits couldn't have afforded coverage without them."
Arizona Republic: "'I'm scared': Why costs for Affordable Care Act health plans in AZ could soar in 2026"
- "... Gilbert resident Steve Gomez fears what will happen to his family's out-of-pocket health expenses in 2026. Gomez, a 44-year-old married father of three children aged six through 11, is an independent contractor and so is his wife, which means neither gets health care through their employer. They don't qualify for any government plans, so they purchase their own health insurance ... 'I am scared as to what my premiums are going to look like next year ... We have to have health insurance in our house,' said Gomez, whose middle child, Anthony, has ongoing health challenges from a heart transplant he had as an infant. 'If you have a child like Anthony, what is that going to look like?'"
- "Federal data indicates 423,025 Arizonans selected ACA plans for 2025 and about 90% of them get federal subsidies to help pay for their coverage."
Pittsburgh Post Gazette: "Obamacare tax credits become a red line as government shutdown looms"
- "Andrea ... manages a beer distributor and pays $190 a month for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, also commonly called Obamacare. Her employer doesn't offer health insurance ... Andrea could see her monthly premiums spike ... Without the subsidies, people should brace for average monthly premium increases of 82%, according to Devon Trolley, executive director of Pennsylvania's Health Insurance Exchange Authority, which runs the Pennie marketplace for Obamacare."
ALX Now: "Health insurance premiums projected to rise for Virginia families if federal subsidies expire"
- "According to the state report, a 60-year-old couple with income between $63,450 and $105,750 could see monthly premiums increase by as much as $1,076, bringing their new total to $2,023.16 per month. A family of four earning $96,450 to $160,000 could face increases of up to $349 monthly, while a 45-year-old individual earning $31,300 to $62,600 could see a $155 monthly jump..."
USA Today: "These people have found their health care at the center of a shutdown showdown"
- "Victoria Sylvester and her husband have discussed divorcing just on paper to protect their assets if her health care costs tip her into bankruptcy. Their health insurance premium is expected to jump from $0 to $1,500 a month when the premium tax credits they've relied on end later this year."
- "For Sylvester, 55, of Traverse City, Michigan, having health insurance isn't optional. In 2022, Sylvester was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer, and while it is in remission now, it has a high rate of recurrence. She needs frequent checkups and testing to catch it quickly if it comes back. And she still receives treatment for some side effects from chemotherapy."
Bloomberg: "GOP Districts 'Supercharged' Obamacare Use Is Risk in Shutdown Fight"
- "'It is districts in deep red states that have the highest ACA enrollment,' said Larry Levitt, executive vice president of health policy at KFF. 'A big part of the MAGA coalition' benefits from the insurance subsides, including small business owners, farmers and workers in jobs without employer-provided coverage,' he added."
- "Amy Bielawski, a 60-year-old small business owner in Tucker, Georgia, is among them. The subsidies lowered her current health insurance premiums to about $30 a month. Bielawski, who had been uninsured for most of her life until the enhanced premium tax credits began in 2021, runs Hare-Brained Productions, which provides entertainers for parties and events. She relies on insurance to cover doctors' visits she needs to get prescriptions for a thyroid disorder... 'If it goes up to 100 bucks a month that's probably going to put me over the edge,' Bielawski said."
NPR: "Time is short for an ACA premium fix in the shutdown fight, says GOP insurance leader"
- "[Noth Dakota insurance commissioner Jon] Godfread insists this issue is not about partisan politics. He himself is an elected Republican, and he is also president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, a membership organization of state insurance regulators across the country. 'Red state, blue state, appointed, elected -- we have unanimous approval supporting these tax credits,' he says."
By The Numbers: An updated analysis by KFF finds that Marketplace consumers will see an average out-of-pocket premium increase of 114 percent if Congress lets the enhanced premium tax credits expire.
- New research by the Urban Institute finds that 267,000 American veterans, or 43 percent of veterans receiving the health care tax credit, will be priced out of coverage.
- Additional research shows that middle-income Americans in other key constituencies, including those who reside in rural communities, small business job-creators and employees and early retirees, will be hard-hit if Congress does not extend the health care tax credits.
Go Deeper: Get the facts on the health care tax credits here (https://www.ahip.org/news/articles/the-facts-about-health-care-tax-credits).
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Original text here: https://www.ahip.org/news/articles/headlines-nationwide-underscore-the-urgency-of-extending-the-health-care-tax-credits
[Category: Insurance]
Consumer Energy Alliance: How New Mexico's Natural Gas Powers State's Economic Growth, Public Services and Energy Affordability
HOUSTON, Texas, Oct. 9 (TNSrpt) -- The Consumer Energy Alliance issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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How New Mexico's Natural Gas Powers State's Economic Growth, Public Services and Energy Affordability
* Nation's 3rd-largest gas producer delivered $13 billion to state coffers in 2024
* NM's cleaner gas exports can help Arizona, West meet surging electricity demand
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ALBUQUERQUE - Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, today released a report examining how New Mexico's natural gas supports the state's
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HOUSTON, Texas, Oct. 9 (TNSrpt) -- The Consumer Energy Alliance issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
* * *
How New Mexico's Natural Gas Powers State's Economic Growth, Public Services and Energy Affordability
* Nation's 3rd-largest gas producer delivered $13 billion to state coffers in 2024
* NM's cleaner gas exports can help Arizona, West meet surging electricity demand
*
ALBUQUERQUE - Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, today released a report examining how New Mexico's natural gas supports the state'sprosperity, funds critical government services and meets surging regional energy demand while helping deliver the nation's most affordable energy to households.
The CEA analysis, "Fueling New Mexico's Future", highlights the multiple ways natural gas contributes to the state, starting with fact that natural gas and oil delivered $13 billion to the state in 2024 and provided 34% of its recurring General Fund revenue in 2024. That is the same year New Mexico became the nation's third-largest natural gas producer, accounting for 8% of all U.S. natural gas production.
"New Mexico's natural gas industry is proof that we can build our economy, help our citizens and share the benefits across state lines into Arizona and the rest of the West, while keeping prices affordable and energy reliable for our people," said Matthew Gonzales, CEA Southwest Executive Director. "By supporting responsible development and recognizing that we must build the infrastructure to get our gas where it is needed, New Mexico is building for its people's future economic prosperity and helping our neighbors meet their surging electricity demand."
The Land of Enchantment produces 10 times more natural gas than it consumes. Natural gas provides approximately 29% of New Mexico's electricity generation and heats nearly 6 in 10 households. This abundance translates directly into tangible benefits for families: New Mexico households pay the lowest total energy costs in America, with monthly electricity bills averaging $103.36--more than 30% cheaper than the national average.
"There are a handful of those in our state who would wish natural gas away, and in doing so, wish away our shared prosperity and valuable funding for services that support all New Mexicans," Gonzales said. "New Mexicans have a proud history of showing up for our state, our neighbors and our country, and our gas industry helps us do all three - and deliver the foundation of a good economy, which starts with reliable and affordable energy.
The affordability advantage is particularly crucial for low-income families. In a state where one in five residents lives in poverty and households in the lowest-income areas spend close to 9% of their income on energy bills, natural gas provides reliable, cost-effective heating at nearly half the cost of electricity. Low natural gas prices have saved New Mexico households and businesses approximately $7.61 billion between 2015 and 2024.
The natural gas and oil business provides family-sustaining jobs to more one out of eight New Mexicans. That is more than 100,000 people and 46% of those working in the industry are Latinos.
For tribal communities, natural gas development has funded scholarships, healthcare clinics, and infrastructure projects. The Native American Energy Efficiency Program alone saves 2.8 million gallons of water annually and enough natural gas to heat 3,900 homes for a month across 11 tribal communities.
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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the trusted voice advocating for affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy solutions that benefit all Americans. Representing families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers, CEA champions sensible, balanced policies that support economic growth and environmental resiliency; and ensures families and businesses are a vocal part of the nation's energy dialogue. Every day, we work to inspire practical, responsible solutions that meet America's energy needs while protecting the environment for generations to come.
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REPORT: https://consumerenergyalliance.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Fueling-New-Mexicos-Future_CEA-Report.pdf
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Original text here: https://consumerenergyalliance.org/2025/10/how-new-mexicos-natural-gas-powers-states-economic-growth-public-services-and-energy-affordability/
[Category: Energy]
