 Minnesotans who buy health coverage on their own should see slight rate increases and even some dropping prices next year. State regulators unveiled final rates for the individual market on Monday that ranged from a 3 percent increase to a 13 percent decrease on average. It follows years of double digit premium hikes in Minnesota causing concern last year that the individual market may collapse. Department of Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman credits a new $549 million re-insurance program championed by state legislative Republicans that will help insurers lower costs over the next two years. According to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, rates would have risen by 20 percent or higher without the Republican-backed reforms. Just four percent of Minnesotans buy coverage on the individual market, which includes shoppers on the state health insurance exchange, called Minshure. Open enrollment begins on November 1st. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.