Van Hollen Statement on New Maryland Health Insurance Rates

Statement

Today Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen issued the following statement on the approved rates for individual health insurance plans that will be sold as part of Maryland Health Connection starting October 1, 2013:

"Maryland is working hard to implement the Affordable Care Act successfully. Today, the state announced approved rates for people purchasing insurance on the individual market through the new insurance marketplace, called the Maryland Health Connection -- these rates don't apply to those who get qualifying health insurance through their employer. Maryland's efforts, and increased oversight and competition, will mean consumers will have many plans to choose -- and that these rates will be some of the lowest rates in the country that have been reported to date. Also, an estimated three out of four people purchasing coverage through Maryland Health Connection will be eligible for tax credits to further reduce the cost of coverage.

"These new plans will also provide important new consumer protections and benefits for Marylanders. Insurance companies will not be able to reject consumers on the basis of pre-existing conditions or charge an individual more just for being a woman, and all plans will provide coverage for maternity care, prescription drugs, and mental health care."

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