U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski said Thursday reopening the federal government will take a bipartisan agreement, but she drew “a red line in the sand” on health care, warning that some premiums could double next year if Affordable Care Act tax credits are not renewed as part of the package.

Kathy Waligora, of the coalition Protect Our Care Illinois, said the expiration of the tax credits would likely lead to higher uninsured rates, with younger adults more likely to drop coverage. This, in turn, would worsen the insurance risk pool and lead to even higher rates for those still in the marketplace.

“People are already trying to figure out how to make room for rent, child care, groceries and utilities,” Waligora said. “If these credits aren’t extended, many will have to decide whether they can afford health insurance at all.”

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