From the newsroom

If you're upset that Regence BlueShield is exiting from the individual marketplace for Whatcom, Island, San Juan and Cowlitz counties in 2026, you have until the end of the day Thursday to submit your public comment.

However, as I explained in my story, while the insurer's requested changes are under review by Washington's State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, the county exits are all but guaranteed.

This means that come January 1, 2026, just as premiums are rising, health insurance for those without employer-sponsored plans becomes a touch harder for those currently covered by Regence.

Open enrollment for the marketplace begins November 1, so individuals on the private marketplace have time to prepare for the changes. However, by 2026, some providers may start to feel the impact of President Trump's health care cuts, further increasing the cost of care.

If you're impacted by insurance offerings or the insurance accepted by your providers, I want to hear from you. Get in touch!

Today's news

Recently felled logs sit next to a service road in Whatcom County in 2025. The federal government is seeking to repeal the Roadless Rule, which protects much of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest from road building and logging. (Julia Tellman/Cascadia Daily News)

Briefs: CVS transition, Bay to Baker to close, WA Trust Bank opens first branch

Perry Fire in North Cascades grows to 600 acres 

How to enjoy one final month of music at Boundary Bay Brewery

Prep soccer preview: Anacortes' Jordan Zaharris

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What's the Deal With?

Ane Berrett, left, and Kathy Valenti pose in front of part of Valenti's fairy garden on Aug. 14 in Parkway Village in Fairhaven. (Audra Anderson/Cascadia Daily News)

What's the Deal With: Neighborhood fairy gardens in Fairhaven?

Have a suggestion for a "What's the Deal With?" Email us at newstips@cascadiadaily.com.

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