Steve Archambault, Democratic candidate for Attorney General, today blasted a decision by Health Insurance Commissioner Chris Koller to approve another set of big rate hikes to Blue Cross and other health insurers. Blue Cross was granted a 9.8% rate hike for 2011; United Health Care was granted a 8.4% rate hike; and Tufts Health Plan was granted an 11% rate hike.

Archambault said, "These new rate hikes, on top of the double-digit ones recently approved, are simply unaffordable and unacceptable. They are far too costly for already squeezed Rhode Island families and businesses and a big blow to Rhode Island as the state attempts to recover from the worst economic situaton in at least a generation.'

"While they are lower than what the Insurers originally requested, that is small consolation for Rhode Island families and businesses," Archambault added.

Archambault has led the fight against rate hikes by Blue Cross and other health insurers repeatedly calling on Commissioner Koller to re-examine the basis of the requests and to give administrative expenses tough new scrutiny. He has called for a top-to-bottom review of all expenses including top executive salaries.

Archambault who serves as a Councilman in Smithfield , would bring a broad legal background to the Attorney General's office. His experience as a police officer, local Prosecutor and defense Attorney gives him a first-hand understanding of all elements of the criminal justice system.