Federal judge rules against ObamaCare subsidies

A federal judge in Oklahoma on Tuesday ruled that ObamaCare enrollees who obtained coverage through the federally-run exchange program cannot receive federal subsidies offered under the law.

At issue was a snippet of language in the health care law that suggests ObamaCare's subsidies can only go to people who obtain insurance through state-run exchanges. Hence, Judge Ronald A. White said the rule was "arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion or otherwise not in accordance with law."

If the ruling stands, it would invalidate subsidies in 36 states.

Other courts have returned mixed opinions on the issue. In July, a three-judge panel from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the White House, though the full court is reconsidering that decision.