Texas is one of a few states that have this law, giving residents under the Affordable Healthcare Act a little more flexibility.
HOUSTON — There’s a major concern happening across the country. Federal subsidies that have helped keep health insurance premiums on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) lower are set to expire on Dec. 31.
But there’s a little-known Texas law that could offset some of those increases, which is potential good news for families living in the state.
The law was passed a few years ago. It gives Texas state officials more control over how health plans are priced on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, and that could really help soften the impact of rising premiums for families. Texas is one of the few states able to use this approach.
Texas law allows for the use of something called “silver loading.” Essentially, it raises the price of mid-tier (silver) plans on paper so that federal subsidies also increase, while keeping costs on other plans — bronze, gold, or other silver plans — lower.
That means families in Texas may have more flexibility when federal subsidies expire and they can pay lower premiums next year without those federal subsidies.
But it’s important to know this doesn’t magically erase all cost increases. What it does do is help some Texans stay covered for a more manageable price.
Some families can switch to gold or bronze plans and pay much less than the expected increase, but it’s not automatic and depends on how it’s implemented.
Open enrollment runs through January 15, so families still have time to shop around before 2026 premiums take effect.
Here’s what families can do now:
- Review your current coverage. See what plan you have and what it will cost in 2026.
- Watch for state-level changes. “Silver loading” could affect premiums for some plans.
- Use the Kaiser Family Foundation’s ACA premium calculator. It’s interactive and helps you estimate what your plan could cost next year.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reports that nearly 5.8 million people nationwide have already selected plans for 2026, including about 950,000 new consumers. Over 4.8 million people who already had coverage have re-enrolled.
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