Congressman Jim Costa Joins Covered California in Fresno to Encourage Californians to Enroll in Health Insurance by Jan. 31 Deadline

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FRESNO, Calif. - Covered California made a visit to the Central Valley to emphasize its commitment to help Californians sign up for or renew their health insurance coverage during the current Open Enrollment period, which ends January 31. This is happening amid uncertainty and ongoing debate over Enhanced Premium Tax Credits that have delivered greater affordability and record enrollment across the nation.

Rep. Jim Costa (CA-21) joined Covered California to encourage Californians to explore their options ahead of this week's deadline and get connected to health insurance coverage. Rep. Costa has been a member of Congress since 2005 and voted to make the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act the law of the land in 2010.

"Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, families across the San Joaquin Valley, and millions of Americans nationwide, have been able to access affordable health coverage," said Congressman Costa. "With this initiative under attack, we are already seeing enrollment numbers drop this year as uncertainty drives up costs and pushes families out of the market. Families are being forced to choose between putting food on the table or maintaining lifesaving health insurance. It is critical that my Senate colleagues act urgently to pass an extension of these essential tax credits. A bipartisan solution must be signed into law to support working families to receive affordable healthcare in our Valley and across the nation."

Rep. Costa joined Covered California's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Monica Soni, Fresno City Councilmember Annalisa Perea, and local health leaders at My Homies Kitchen in Fresno to highlight the importance of having health coverage.

"As a primary care doctor, I've seen firsthand that health insurance helps protect the physical, mental and financial health of you and your family. When my patients get the care they need, they are able to meet their personal goals at work, school, and life." said Dr. Soni, who also leads Covered California's Quality Transformation Initiative.

"The deadline for Open Enrollment is quickly approaching, so explore your options now and find a plan that works for you and your family - because you can't use your health insurance if you don't get health insurance."

Despite this year's unique challenges, 385,000 Californians are enrolled in a 2026 plan with a monthly premium of $10 or less per member, and more than 1.9 million Californians have found a plan that works for them for 2026. That includes more than 51,000 people across the Fresno area.

"As the cost of living continues to rise, Covered California offers working families in our communities the opportunity to obtain high-quality health insurance, with financial support to cover monthly premiums," said Sandra Celedon, President and CEO of Fresno Building Healthy Communities. "At a time when many vulnerable families are under attack, Covered California and the state are stepping up to protect access to essential care and keep our communities healthy."

The state of California has put $190 million toward keeping monthly premiums reasonable for the most vulnerable in the state. While this funding doesn't make up for the $2.5 billion lost with Enhanced Premium Tax Credits sunsetting, nearly 400,000 enrollees are already benefiting. Thousands more across the state are switching to lower-cost plans that help keep their families covered at a price they can afford.

"Health equity is essential to the well-being of our entire community. When families lack access to quality, affordable healthcare, it creates barriers that touch every part of their lives, from work and education to long-term stability," said Fresno City Councilmember Annalisa Perea. "Covered California continues to be a source of opportunity and connection to high-quality, affordable health coverage for everyone in California."

Anyone who needs insurance can use the Shop and Compare Tool at CoveredCA.com to explore plan options in their area and get estimates of coverage and monthly premiums.

Signing Up for Coverage Is Easy

Consumers can learn more about their options by visiting CoveredCA.com, where they can easily find out if they qualify for financial help and see the coverage options in their area. Those interested in learning more about their coverage options can also:

· Get free and confidential assistance over the phone, in a variety of languages, from one of more than 14,000 certified agents and community-based organizations throughout the state that provide free, confidential help in whatever language or dialect consumers prefer.

• Have a certified enroller call them and help them for free.
• Use Covered California's online calculator tool.
• Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506.

About Covered California

Covered California is the state's health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.

Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health insurance marketplace work for California's consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.