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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Josh Heintzeman (R)

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Statement from Rep. Josh Heintzeman on MNsure Rate Increases

Friday, September 30, 2016

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

Additionally, 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.

Rep. Josh Heintzeman, R-Nisswa, issued the following statement in reaction to the Department of Commerce announcing double-digit rate increases and enrollment caps:

“As Minnesotans face another year of unaffordable double-digit premium increases, it’s clearer than ever that MNsure is in desperate need of reform. I am frustrated for the families and individuals in our community affected by these significant price increases, and will continue to advocate for solutions. It’s time to make some long-overdue changes because Minnesotans cannot afford to wait any longer.”

On Friday, Republicans including Rep. Heintzeman 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 off 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.