CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse called for Republicans to “join them in taking urgent action” to prevent health insurance premiums from rising.

On Monday, the 20th day of the government shutdown, the senators pushed for Republicans to take bipartisan action to lower healthcare costs and reopen the government before the start of open enrollment on Nov. 1.

In a press release, the senators claimed that if action is not taken to lower costs, Rhode Islanders could pay double or triple for health insurance in January.

They said the “steep price hikes” are a result of the Trump administration’s $1 trillion cut to healthcare, Republican’s “refusal” to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits, and tariffs on pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.

“Tens of

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