MNsure Launches TV, Radio Ads Statewide

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Minnesota's new online health insurance marketplace has started airing television and radio ads statewide.

MNsure's ads began airing Wednesday. The broadcast spots supplement bus advertising, billboards and posters in the Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud, Mankato and Moorhead.

The state contracted with BBDO Proximity Minneapolis for the $9 million marketing campaign titled "Minnesota, Land of 10,000 Reasons to Get Health Insurance."  Part of the campaign was launched Aug. 19.

The campaign features Minnesota legends Paul Bunyan and his companion, Babe the Blue Ox, in situations where health care coverage is important.

MNsure is key to implementing President Barack Obama's health care law in Minnesota. Open enrollment in the insurance plans MNsure will offer opens Oct. 1.