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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jenifer Loon (R)

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Statement from Rep. Jenifer Loon on MNsure Rate Increases

Friday, September 30, 2016

SAINT PAUL, MINN—On Friday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce revealed final MNsure rates will increase 50 percent or more, on top of increases of up to 17 percent and 49 percent Minnesotans have faced over the past two years.

In addition, the Minnesota Department of Commerce approved enrollment caps that will limit Minnesotans' access to federal financial assistance and their ability to find health care coverage. Enrollment caps limit the number of new enrollees for certain insurers who sell insurance on the individual market. Due to MNsure's inability to accurately process applications in a timely manner, Minnesotans who attempt to enroll through MNsure could be left without coverage through no fault of their own. Those who enroll directly with an insurer typically receive confirmation of coverage immediately.

“Over the past several years, I have advocated for commonsense reforms to address our failing health insurance exchange, MNsure, in an attempt to improve choices and rein in rising health insurance costs,” said Rep. Jenifer Loon (R-Eden Prairie). “Another year of double-digit increases are simply unaffordable for too many people.  I have heard from an increasing number of local families and small business owners that can no longer afford to purchase health insurance. I will continue to advocate for long overdue changes to improve choice and affordability in the health insurance market. After today’s disappointing news on rate increases and enrollment caps, I hope state leaders from both parties will come together to implement vital reforms.”

On Friday, Republicans including Rep. Loon also sent a letter to Governor Dayton demanding immediate action on a law signed by him in 2015 requiring the Department of Commerce to seek a waiver that would allow Minnesotans to access tax credits outside of the MNsure exchange. Over 75 percent of people who buy health insurance on their own do not receive any financial assistance from MNsure, undermining MNsure's claims that tax credits will offset massive rate increases.