Associated Press Published

U.S. Plans W.Va. Refunds Under Affordable Care Act

Sylvia_Mathews_Burwell_at_April_2013_Senate_nomination_hearing.jpg

More than $900,000 in refunds from insurance companies are headed to 8,300 consumers in West Virginia.

Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell announced the payments Thursday, crediting the Affordable Care Act.

Burwell said the refunds in West Virginia will average $177 per family.

The payments are being made under a provision of the act that requires insurers to make the refunds if they spend an excessive amount on red tape and bonuses for executives.

West Virginians entitled to a refund will get the money through a check in the mail or in a reduction in future premiums, among other ways.