Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act

This bill permanently extends the enhanced premium tax credit for Affordable Care Act marketplace insurance plans, directly affecting millions of lower-income households (earning 150%-400% of the federal poverty level) who purchase coverage through state or federal marketplaces. It establishes a sliding-scale percentage system where the tax credit reduces monthly premiums based on income, starting at 0% for households earning up to 150% of poverty and increasing to 8.5% for those earning 300%-400% of poverty. The bill replaces temporary provisions with permanent rules, ensuring consistent cost-sharing support for eligible buyers. The changes apply to tax years beginning after December 31, 2025.