COVID Pandemic Drives Increase in ACA Enrollment, Despite Trump Administration’s Sabotage of the Law

“The huge success of this open enrollment period once again demonstrates the crucial role the ACA marketplaces play as a safety net, providing access to comprehensive coverage to millions when they need it most. It’s no surprise that the massive coverage losses and economic downturn led to the first increase in enrollment in the Trump-era.

While this data demonstrates the ACA’s importance in providing health coverage to millions, there are likely many more who are still falling through the cracks. The Trump administration made no additional efforts to spread the word about open enrollment, did not increase any outreach or advertising efforts, or take any action beyond previous years to help people get covered. It’s likely that enrollment should have been even higher given the uncertainty caused by the pandemic. It’s time to restore funding for outreach and enrollment support, and we stand ready to work with the Biden administration to ensure that every young adult has access to affordable, comprehensive coverage without worry that their coverage will be jeopardized by petty politics.”