Floridians could see health insurance premiums increase by double digits — and in at least one case, by more than 40%. Those forecasts come in response to the largest rollback of federal health programs in history — the Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed earlier this year. In addition to significant changes to Medicaid and SNAP benefits, the number of people covered by Affordable Care Act insurance is expected to plummet as enhanced premium tax credits expire, leaving millions with higher monthly costs. We talk about what the health care industry is forecasting and what you can expect to pay if Congress doesn’t act before the end of the year.
Guest:
- Scott Darius, executive director, Florida Voices for Health.
Then, the archaeologist who literally helped unearth the history of the first free Black settlement in the United States celebrates the opening of the reconstructed Fort Mose with a 30th anniversary edition of her book, Fort Mose: Colonial America’s Black Fortress of Freedom, which she co-authored with Darcie MacMahon and Jane Landers. We ask the author about an archaeological career spanning 50 years and the revelations and rewards of digging into Northeast Florida’s Black history.
Guest:
- Kathleen Deagan, archaeologist and author of Fort Mose: Colonial America's Black Fortress of Freedom.
And, fighting hunger on the First Coast. We talk to the head of the region’s lead agency in the national Hunger Action month campaign, which is held each September to encourage food bank donations, advocate for nutrition program funding and invite volunteers to become more involved in local efforts to nourish children and families. The local head of Feeding Northeast Florida explains the local need and how you can help.
Guest:
- Susan King, president and CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida.