Opinion: Affordable health care is critical for a strong Alaskan workforce

I’ve had the pleasure of living in Alaska for almost 60 years, and for much of that time, I’ve worked to build and promote a strong visitor industry in the state. Alaska is one of the finest destinations in the world, and tourism is one of our most renewable resources. It’s a significant contributor to the economy and a major source of new business growth and innovation. Last year alone, the travel industry generated $5.6 billion and supported over 48,000 jobs.

As the industry grows, so does its workforce needs. But Alaska’s population is aging, the working-age population is dwindling, and we’ve experienced net outmigration for over a decade. For our industry to thrive, we must retain the talent we have and attract more young professionals to Alaska.

Health care access and affordability are essential to recruitment and retention. It’s fundamental to our quality of life, and yet Alaska has some of the highest health care costs in the nation.

Over 27,000 Alaskans buy health insurance on the individual market. Many are self-employed, small-business owners or young professionals. More than 80% of them qualified for the enhanced premium tax credit which significantly lowered their annual premium. Unfortunately, this popular and effective credit expires this year, which will more than double insurance costs for thousands of Alaskans. Worse, it could result in many not being able to afford coverage at all.

To build and grow our tourism industry, we must invest in the people who power it. Let’s do what we can to make Alaska a more affordable place to live and work. Extending the enhanced premium tax credit will help support working families and small businesses critical to keeping our industry strong.

Mary Pignalberi has spent 50 years working in the Alaska tourism industry. She served as director of the Alaska Division of Tourism and the State Film Office.

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