ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesotans who buy health plans through the state-run health insurance exchange or directly from health insurers will see average premiums hold steady or decline next year.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce also released data Tuesday that shows most people covered through a small business health plan will see average premium increases of 2% to 4%.

State Commerce Commissioner Steve Kelley says the rate changes show Minnesota’s individual health insurance market has stabilized. But Kelley says many Minnesotans “still struggle to afford health insurance,” due to expensive premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

MNsure says next year, every county in Minnesota will offer at least two insurers. The Star Tribune reports while the lineup of insurance companies selling coverage through MNsure is holding steady, those companies are adding a total of 39 new health plan options.

Open enrollment begins Nov. 1. Minnesotans can view available 2020 plans through MNsure starting Oct. 15.

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