Governor ‘Extremely Unhappy’ With Proposed Premium Increases

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — State officials say Minnesotans buying health coverage through MNsure will pay between 14 percent and 49 percent more on average next year.

The state on Thursday released 2016 rate increases for consumers who shop on the individual market. Most Minnesotans are covered through employer health plans.

State Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman says more Minnesotans than ever will qualify for federal tax credits available through MNsure to lower the cost of health coverage.

But Rothman also says reforms are needed to help stabilize insurance company rates in Minnesota's individual market.

Most companies have proposed increases of more than 20 percent. Blue Cross Blue Shield, the largest insurer in the individual market, has asked for a hike of more than 50 percent.

The open enrollment period begins on Nov. 1.