Health insurance premiums in Colorado are set to rise significantly, with the Western Slope facing the steepest increase—up to 38%, according to new data from the Colorado Division of Insurance.
The spike is expected to hit families who purchase coverage on the individual market, affecting nearly 100,000 Coloradans statewide. Compared to the Denver and Boulder regions, the Western Slope is projected to see rates more than 10% higher.
Why the sharp increase?
Kate Harris, Chief Deputy Commissioner at the Colorado Department of Insurance, points to recent federal policy changes:
“This is the result of what’s happening at the federal level. Unfortunately, Congress did not extend the enhanced premium tax credits that helped consumers save money in recent years.”
Key issues driving the rate hikes:
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Loss of federal tax credits that previously offset premium costs
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Reduced eligibility for coverage subsidies due to federal budget decisions
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A lack of new protections from recent legislation
What’s being done?
Harris said the department is actively seeking solutions:
“We proposed a bill last year that would’ve saved Coloradans money, and we’re looking at new options in the upcoming legislative session to help mitigate these increases.”
As lawmakers prepare for the 2025 session, affected residents—especially in rural and mountainous regions—are left weighing their options in the face of rising healthcare costs.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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