Health Insurance premiums skyrocket

House Bill 20 would help small businesses in NC pay for employee health insurance.





Greensboro, NC -- The number of uninsured workers in North Carolina is on the rise.



Officials blame that on rising health care costs and skyrocketing premiums.



So, state lawmakers are introducing a new bill that would help small businesses pay for health insurance for employees.



House Bill 20 is a $42 million dollar proposal.

It would give businesses with 25 employees or less a $400 tax credit per employee per year, helping to offset costs.



Clyde Cummings owns Cummings Auto Service in Greensboro.



He has about 10 employees, and he pays 100% of employee premiums. He says the tax credit would be a tremendous help.



"We've maintained our health insurance coverage, but I don't know how many more years we can keep doing that without some help somewhere. In my opinion, that would be one of the best things legislators could do to help small business," says Cummings.



"I've been in business 32 years and had a medical plan all these years. And the past few years it's been real testy."



This bill would apply to businesses that pay more than 50% of employee premiums.



It is being heard in the House finance committee, and according to lawmakers we talked to, it has a lot of momentum and support.