Now joining me, Utah Republican Congressman and someone who uniquely is aware of how healthcare works in this country because he is a physician and that is Congressman Mike Kennedy. Uh Congressman and doctor, thank you so much for being here. I want to first start with these reports that the White House is set to announce its own healthc care proposal.Have you or any of your fellow Republicans on the Hill seen those details. >> CNN has a story. >> I haven't seen those details yet, Ryan, but thanks for havin ...

Government Shutdown Impact - The US federal government is reopening after the longest shutdown in history [1] - Flight reductions remain at 6% for the busiest airports, but are expected to decrease in the coming days [5] - Over 40 million Americans lost access to their full SNAP benefits for part of November [6] - Full restoration of SNAP benefits could take up to a week in some places [8] Financial and Economic Implications - Homeland Security Secretary gave out $10,000 bonuses to TSA employees in Houston [1] - Approximately $35 billion a year of ACA funds are at stake, with potential premium hikes for about 22 million Americans if the funding expires [9] Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Healthcare - Republicans are still opposed to the ACA and are considering alternatives, including expanding funding for health savings accounts and association health plans [10][11] - Republican plans aim to deregulate the insurance market, potentially leading to lower costs for some but higher costs for the sickest and lowest-income individuals [11]

Health savings accounts offer tax-free health savings. Learn the rules of how they work, including contribution limits and eligible expenses, to see if they’re right for you. https://t.co/WN9FE2CsHK ...

Core Insights - The article discusses five financial challenges that individuals should prepare for to avoid significant financial strain when they occur Group 1: Job and Income Loss - Job and income loss can happen suddenly, affecting both business owners and employees, with current job growth slowing and confidence in job searching at a record low [3] - The risk of being forced to sell stocks at a loss during a recession is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an emergency fund covering three to twelve months of living expenses [4] Group 2: Prolonged Illness or Injury - Prolonged illness or major injury can lead to high healthcare costs and loss of income, making health insurance essential [5] - Health savings accounts (HSAs) are recommended for tax-free savings for healthcare expenses, which can also serve as a secondary retirement account [6] Group 3: Major Home and Car Repairs - Regular maintenance and repairs for homes and cars are inevitable, and budgeting for these costs is necessary [7] - It is advised to set aside 1-4% of a home's value annually for repairs, separate from emergency funds [8]