CONCORD, N.H., March 7 -- Gov. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., issued the following news release:

Following conditional approval today from the federal Department of Health and Human Services of a State-Federal Partnership health insurance marketplace, Governor Maggie Hassan issued the following statement:

"New Hampshire's health insurance marketplace will help more Granite Staters access quality, affordable health coverage, and moving forward with a partnership marketplace is critical for preserving oversight at the state level in order to ensure that the health insurance offered to our citizens and businesses meets their needs. I thank Secretary Sebelius and HHS for their quick approval, and I look forward to working with the federal government and in collaboration with the state legislature to ensure that New Hampshire maintains flexibility and is protected financially as we work to maximize the resources available to improve the health of our people."

TNS C-paypan56 130308-mv45-4234922