October 1, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota — State Rep. Patti Fritz (DFL- Faribault) released the following statement on today’s MNsure rate release and the news that Minnesota will still have the lowest rates in the country.
“There was big progress for our region with the release of these new rates. This marketplace is working, and the fact that we have the lowest rates in the nation for the second year in a row is proof enough of that,” said Rep. Fritz.
Rep. Fritz sounded optimistic about lower premiums and new health insurance options for southeastern Minnesota communities.
“There are plans in our region that will actually see premiums go down, and I honestly can’t tell you if that has ever happened,” said Rep. Fritz. “These savings are a big deal for families and individuals who used to have to go it alone with poor plans, or no health insurance at all. The fact that southeastern Minnesota is going to see five times more product offerings to consumers is also really positive news for our area. This is what happens when you let companies compete for business in a free marketplace, and I’m glad to see it’s working.”
“As a nurse, I’ve always believed that affordable access to good healthcare is a basic priority for everyone in our community, and we have to keep working at that, but this progress is so encouraging. Today the percentage of uninsured Minnesotans is lower than ever, and we’re maintaining the lowest rates in the nation. That’s a great starting point moving forward.”