Sen. Carper Issues Statement on Highmark’s Proposed Rate Increase of 33.6% for 2018 Individual Marketplace

WASHINGTON, June 14 -- Sen. Thomas Carper, D-Del., issued the following statement:

Today, U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement on Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware's proposed health insurance rate increase for 33.6% for its 2018 individual marketplace business.

"This news makes clear what we've known for months - the federal government's continued sabotage of the Affordable Care Act is creating tremendous uncertainty in our individual insurance marketplaces."

"The result is skyrocketing premiums for hardworking families who may no longer be able to afford coverage. Every American should be able to get to the doctor to stay as healthy as possible and to get treatment when they're sick, and we in Congress should be doing everything we can to make that possible."

"Every day, but especially today, my colleagues and I should summon our better angels and work across party lines to make bipartisan improvements to our health care system that improve health outcomes and lower health care costs for all Americans."