Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens announced today that he has requested an emergency delay of the filing deadline for Obamacare rates from U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, and for her to show reasons why the rates submitted by Georgia health insurers are not justified by Obamacare.

“President Obama promised Americans that Obamacare would lower rates, but here in Georgia insurance companies are demanding massive rate increases up to 198 percent for some individuals” Commissioner Hudgens said.

Companies opting to participate in the Exchange have provided the Department with evidence that their rates are justified and in compliance with Georgia law, citing the new Obamacare mandates as the reason.

In a letter faxed to Sebelius on Monday, Hudgens sought protection for Georgians by requesting an emergency 30 day delay of submission of his rate review to allow Department staff additional time to analyze the increases.

“I was always skeptical of Obamacare”, Hudgens said. “But I never imagined that it would lead to rates being doubled or tripled. “Increases of this magnitude will make coverage less affordable and increase the number of uninsured in Georgia.”

The deadline for submission of approved rates to Health and Human Services is Wednesday, July 31. Hudgens has asked for a response to his request by close of business today.