Affordable Care Act

As some local leaders warn about a looming threat to Cortez’s Southwest Memorial Hospital, the two candidates for Montezuma County commissioner have differing views on the bill causing the threat.

Health care in southwest Colorado is in danger because of the coming impacts of H.R. 1. That was the message given by State Rep. Katie Stewart, Southwest Health System CEO Joe Theine, and others during a virtual press conference Tuesday morning.

Colorado GOP Rep. Jeff Hurd has joined a bipartisan group proposing a two-year extension of enhanced ACA premium tax credits, aiming to prevent steep insurance hikes while adding income caps and fraud safeguards.

Colorado health insurance premiums could rise sharply as tax credits expire. Advocates warn of medical debt, care delays, and financial instability for many residents.

As the political debate over repealing the Affordable Care Act heats up in Washington, Montezuma County might feel far removed at some points. But instead…