Health exchange considers higher fees as federal grants end

The state’s health exchange is looking at more than doubling the fee that insurers pass onto customers who buy policies.

The Denver Post reports Connect for Health Colorado staff recommended the increase Monday as $177 million in federal startup grants come to a close and as insurance carriers prepare to submit their rate plans by May 29.

If the health exchange board approves the 3.5 percent charge for premiums, the fee for a $4,000 yearly plan would go up by $84. Staff also recommended upping a monthly assessment charge for 1.2 million private insurance policies to bring in $2 million more.

The plan is expected to come up for a vote next week and would boost revenue for the exchange by $5.8 million.