HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - Thousands of people in Connecticut will be paying more for health insurance next year.

The Connecticut Insurance Department has approved a double-digit health insurance rate hike.

More than 220,000 people will see the increase next year. Most of them are on individual health plans. There will be an average rate hike of nearly 17% on those plans, with an 11% average increase on small group policies.

“Something’s not right and unfortunately it feeds the frustrations and anger people have towards the insurers and they can’t provide for their loved ones. Health chance is a critical need and It’s become unaffordable in Connecticut,” said Senator Tony Hwang, (R), Farifield.

Small business owners with fewer than 50 employees will also be affected.

“When you start tak

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