Protecting Access to Affordable Coverage Act of 2025

This legislation seeks to significantly ease the process for individuals to enroll in qualified health plans under the Affordable Care Act. For plan year 2026, it extends the open enrollment period to run from November 1, 2025, until May 1, 2026, providing a longer window for individuals to select coverage. Furthermore, the bill repeals specific verification requirements that may have previously hindered enrollment, thereby streamlining the application process. A key provision establishes a new special enrollment period , available once per month, for individuals who qualify for advance premium tax credits and whose household income is not expected to exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty line. This aims to ensure continuous access to coverage for low-income populations. The bill also strengthens the Navigator program , which assists consumers with enrollment, by requiring Exchanges to award grants to entities with a physical presence in the state and prohibiting Navigators from charging fees or being enhanced direct enrollment entities. Finally, it mandates the allocation of $100,000,000 annually from user fees to fund Navigator grants in federal exchanges, ensuring robust support for enrollment assistance.