Article Summary –
Macy Buhler, a child care center owner in DeForest, and Evan Dannells, a small business owner in Madison, express concern over the potential expiration of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which help provide affordable healthcare benefits to their employees. They argue that without these subsidies, small businesses will face challenges in retaining staff and competing with larger corporations that can offer better benefits. This issue highlights a broader political divide, with Wisconsin Democrats advocating for the extension of the subsidies and criticizing Republicans for opposing the ACA, which they argue could result in increased healthcare costs for small businesses in the state.
Operating a child care center in DeForest, Macy Buhler understands her staff faces constant germ exposure. “They care for our youngest citizens, comforting them when sick. They’re exposed to everything, and as a business owner, I need to keep them healthy,” she noted.
Buhler prioritized employee health amidst news of expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits. “The ACA subsidies helped level the field, allowing me to offer staff the benefits they deserve,” she explained.
At a Wisconsin Capitol press conference on Dec. 15, state Democratic leaders and Main Street Action highlighted the 300,000 Wisconsinites who may face higher insurance costs without subsidies.
In Congress, a Democratic petition led four centrist Republicans to push for a vote on extending the subsidies. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson stated a vote wouldn’t occur until after subsidies expire, according to Reuters.
Overseeing about 30 employees, Buhler expressed concern about retaining staff without tax credits. “I don’t know how to change the minds of those opposing this,” she said. “Children, small businesses, families, and farmers need these subsidies.”
Chef Evan Dannells, owner of Madison’s Cadre, also spoke. With 10 full-time employees, Dannells said his small business lacks the buying power to secure affordable insurance. “Obamacare was the first time small business owners could provide reasonable benefits,” he said.
“Increasing costs will drive employees toward corporate jobs for better benefits,” he added, noting challenges from the pandemic and tariffs.
Dannells initially kept politics separate from his business. The pandemic changed his stance, emphasizing advocacy. “You can’t expect others to advocate for you,” he stated. “We must speak up about issues affecting us.”
Democrats Push as Republicans Oppose ACA
Wisconsin’s delegation split along party lines over the petition for extending ACA subsidies.
Outside the Capitol, Democrats targeted U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, a gubernatorial candidate. “Democrats are fighting, while Republicans like Tiffany ignore the issue,” said Devin Remiker, Democratic Party of Wisconsin chair.
Tiffany criticized the ACA, stating on social media that “doubling down isn’t the solution.” He also commented on subsidy expiration.
Rep. Derrick Van Orden reiterated opposition to Obamacare, advocating for its repeal on social media and through campaign platforms.
Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer voiced concern over “GOP-imposed increases” in health care costs, potentially raising expenses for Wisconsinites on the exchange. “Without tax credits, businesses will struggle to offer coverage, leading to staffing issues,” she warned.
Dannells emphasized that voting is citizens’ power. “Most Wisconsinites want people to have basic necessities. When denied, it angers us,” he remarked, hoping polls reflect this sentiment.
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