Shutdown
Still no updates on an end to the government shutdown. Senate Majority leader John Thune announced that discussions would be held soon on potentially ending the shutdown. Shutdown effects are expected to grow in the coming weeks. CBO estimated that the shutdown would lower annualized GDP growth in the fourth quarter by 1.0 to 2.0 percentage points. SNAP (food stamp) funding is expected to be halted in November affecting 42 million low-income Americans.
ACA Open Enrollment
2026 ACA Open enrollment will open for most states on Saturday. CMS released data on this year’s 2026 Open Enrollment, which you can find here. KFF found that average gross premiums will be up 26% while average net premiums (including the reduction in federal subsidies) to be up 114%. HMA released a report on potential sources of consumer confusion as well as actions states and issuers can take to reduce this confusion.
Cigna Ends Prescription Drug Rebates
Cigna announced that it will eliminate prescription drug rebates in its own commercial health plans in 2027 and instead offer up front discounts at its pharmacies. Cigna said that starting in 2028 clients who use Express Script PBM could elect this benefit. There is ongoing political pressure to change rebate practices.
Feds Lower Rates
The Federal Reserve voted to lower rates a quarter of point. The reduction was a further sign of declining economic conditions.
