Insurance tips for the start of the new school year

As the time grows nearer to the start of the new school year, it is important to look over your insurance needs and consider whether or not they are being met by your current coverage, as there are many issues that can alter your protection requirements at this time. A child’s grade level change, a newly licensed teen, or having a family member who is a college freshmen can each impact the type of insurance you need for auto, health, and homeownership. First, have a look at your auto insurance.…

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Recession spurs rate of insured children in the U.S., many more eligible for public plans

More children are receiving health insurance through public programs, according to a study from the University of New Hampshire. The economic recession took an unprecedented toll on society, driving many into the arms of unemployment. Unable to cover their children with health care benefits obtained through their jobs, parents have turned to government-sponsored programs to meet these needs. These private plans are providing much needed care for families struggling with a flagging economy. A team of researchers studied data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Their study reveals that the…

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The latest battle over Maine health insurance bill

As health care reform continues to be a hotly contested issue throughout the nation, Maine is embroiled in its own battle regarding the state’s health insurance regulations. Earlier this week, a bill was introduced that would seek to overhaul the current regulatory standard in the hopes of increasing competition in the state’s health insurance market, thereby driving down insurance rates. Introduced by Representative Jonathan McKane (R), the bill has received rigid opposition from Democrats who say that consumer protections are being put at risk.  The promise that the bill will…

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Oregon health insurance rates on the rise

Health insurance providers in Oregon have been seeking approval for rate increases for nearly a year. Some may be getting their wish, but will not be able to raise rates as much as they had originally planned. The Oregon Insurance Division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services has granted approval for half of the rate proposals they have been reviewing over the past year. While many companies will not see the increases they had hoped for, consumers stand to save more money on their policies. The Division approved…

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New Jersey: Government run health plan looking to close their doors

In New Jersey, hundreds of cities and school districts have saved a fortune by taking part in the state’s relatively unknown benefits program. For the past three years, an increasing number of people are dropping the insurance policies they bought from big name companies in favor of the state’s program. Some legislators are looking to change that by proposing a new bill that could severely inhibit the program. Stephen M. Sweeney, the State Senate president, is proposing legislation that would prohibit the state run insurance program from accepting new members.…

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