Connecticut House passes bill opening insurance to more people

The Connecticut House of Representatives has passed legislation designed to cut healthcare costs by allowing more people to join the state employee health insurance pool. The bill would permit municipalities, nonprofit groups and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees to voluntarily join the state's pool, creating a bargain on costs and saving money. Opponents say the bill could place in jeopardy $54 million in projected savings that Connecticut expects to receive under recent contract negotiations with health insurers.