Excellus of New York files for rate increases, cites soaring health care costs

Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield of New York has approached state insurance regulators for approval to raise its health insurance rates. The proposal is planned to take effect next year and will impose a 19.5% increase on some of the policies in the state. The company says that the increase is necessary in order to keep up with soaring medical costs. This is the same reasoning that prevails amongst the majority of the nation’s health insurers, but the notion has yet to gain traction amongst lawmakers, who have been tasked…

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New York drivers in for steeper point surcharges

The cost of driving in New York can add up and it’s going to get higher. Starting next week drivers better hang up while behind the wheel or they’ll face a steeper penalty on their record. Driving while talking on the phone has been illegal for many years but only now has the point count gone from 1 point to 2. The state requirement allows 11 points over an 18 month time period before you’ll lose your license. Experts agree, since car insurance rates are based on the amount of…

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