Courtney statement on Aetna decision to lower insurance rates in Connecticut

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Joe Courtney today released the following statement after Aetna announced that it is seeking to lower insurance rates in Connecticut. The decision is, in part, a result of new patient protections that are taking effect as a result of last year’s health care reform law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

“Today’s development provides long-overdue relief for employers and is a direct result of the new medical loss ratio requirement in the Affordable Care Act. This announcement combined with the health care reform law’s small employer tax credit will further turn the tide of rising health care costs for Connecticut’s job creators.

“For good reason, the insurance reforms in the Affordable Care Act were designed to address problems in our health care system over time, phasing in changes gradually. Because of this law, recent graduates and young adults up to age 26 are eligible to remain on their parents’ insurance plans; seniors are getting help paying for their prescription drugs; and now Connecticut consumers will see real savings on their premiums.”