Washington, D.C. – Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva released the following statement today marking the opening of the new Affordable Care Act health insurance marketplace in Arizona.

“Yesterday, despite a partisan government shutdown, new health care marketplaces opened in Southern Arizona and around the country thanks to the Affordable Care Act. These marketplaces will provide uninsured individuals with the opportunity to find affordable health insurance that meets their needs.

“Arizonans looking for coverage will be able to choose from several affordable choices explained in easy-to-understand language – in fact, Arizona features the highest number of average insurance options for a given resident of any state in the country with one hundred and six. It’s estimated that more than half of those shopping in the new marketplace will qualify for discounts on their monthly premium.

“Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, there will be no more health insurance denials for pre-existing conditions, no annual or lifetime limits on coverage, and no higher rates for women compared to men. Everyone should take a minute to understand how the law really works. Many Arizonans are eligible for benefits or subsidies they may not have known were available.

“There’s no need to rush through the process. The current open enrollment period runs through the end of next March. Arizonans looking for health coverage should go to www.healthcare.gov and enter their ZIP code to compare their options. It’s that simple. If constituents have questions, they can call 1-800-318-2596 for toll free answers any time of day.”