Insurance rates released by Walker questioned

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Health care advocates are calling into question rate information released by Gov. Scott Walker's administration showing dramatic price increases for insurance plans to be sold through the new marketplace established under the federal health care law.

Walker is a staunch opponent of President Barack Obama's health overhaul law and has repeatedly called for its repeal. His insurance commissioner's office on Tuesday released its analysis of how rates for plans being sold through the marketplace compare to what is offered now.

The analysis looks at rates for three different age groups in eight cities. It shows rates would go up between 9.7 percent and nearly 125 percent.

But Robert Kraig with Citizen Action Wisconsin says the report ignores key facts, such as federal subsidies, and is designed to confuse the public.