Proposals by some insurers for large health insurance premium increases upset key politicians.
"The proposed rate increases from Minnesota's health insurers are outrageous, given that our state's health care costs have been increasing by only 3 percent," Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton said. "They underscore the need for a rigorous review of those proposed rates by the Minnesota Department of Commerce before they become final on Oct. 1."
Rep. Greg Davids, R-Preston, agreed the news was bad, but blamed Democrats, calling it "another disheartening sign that Obamacare and MNsure are not working for Minnesotans. Contrary to claims that insurance rates are solely a 'business decision,' these proposed prices are a consequence of flaws in federal policy that punish Minnesota consumers and toss aside decades of innovation in Minnesota's health care system."
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota proposes raising its plans' premiums more than 50 percent. Other major insurers came in below that rate, with HealthPartners seeking a 23 percent jump and UCare 12 percent higher rates.
Time Insurance Co. seeks a 74 percent increase for one of its plans, the largest ask. Time also wants a 67 percent increase for another plan.
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The figures are a starting point, and the state Commerce Department will study the proposals to determine if the rate hikes are justified. Final rates will be released Oct. 1.
"This is just the first step in a rigorous and thorough review of each health insurance rate request to ensure that it is justified," said Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman. "What the insurers propose is not necessarily what will be approved."
State law gives Rothman's department the right to deny or change proposed rates determined to be excessive or inadequate.
The commissioner encouraged Minnesotans with comments to send them to healthinsurance.ratecomments@state.mn.us by July 31.
This week's release is the first time proposed rates have been released to the public. In the past, only final rates were available.
Only rate increases of at least 10 percent were released. The proposal only affects individuals who buy insurance; they are not for employer-sponsored health plans.
