Time Running Out For Health Care Signups, Special Session

ST. PAUL (AP) - Time is running out to buy health insurance effective for the start of the New Year.

Thursday was the final day shoppers who aren't covered through an employer or public program could buy a plan that starts Jan. 1. MNsure says that window closes at midnight.

It's not the only major health care deadline looming. Gov. Mark Dayton has asked lawmakers to sign off on a plan to offset massive premium hikes in a special session before Friday.

But the deal isn't done and two top negotiators are out of town. Democratic Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk and Republican House Speaker Kurt Daudt are attending a legislative leaders' conference in the U.S. Virgin Islands through Friday.

They're hoping for a special session next week. Open enrollment lasts through January.