CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Millions of Americans could soon see their health insurance costs climb.

It's a key sticking point in the ongoing government shutdown and part of a growing concern about how rising premiums could hit family budgets next year.

Employers say premiums for workplace plans could go up by 6% to 7% next year.

For millions who buy insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, the stakes are higher. Insurers are proposing average premium increases of 15%, with some jumping 20% or more.

A big reason is federal subsidies that help many afford coverage are set to expire. Without them, costs could double — in many cases, premiums might soar 114%. That means people could pay far more out of pocket or struggle just to keep coverage.

Congress is under pressure to act; rene

See Full Page