Wash. begins enrolling companies in health program

OLYMPIA, Wash. —

A new state program that offers health insurance to small businesses has begun signing up members.

It's called the Health Insurance Partnership. Enrollment started Wednesday and coverage will begin next year.

Companies with 50 or fewer employees are eligible. Employers contribute about 40 percent of the coverage cost, compared to what the state says is the standard 75 percent on the small group market.

Premium subsidies are available for some workers after accounting for family income.

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