Chris Christie Considering NJ Health Exchange Options

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he's weighing the costs of establishing a health insurance exchange before deciding how the state will comply with the Affordable Care
Act.

States now have until Dec. 14 to decide whether they plan to run their own exchange, partner with the federal government or let the feds run it. The exchanges are online marketplaces where uninsured residents can shop for health care coverage and are an important part of the health care overhaul sometimes referred to as "Obamacare."

The deadline to decide had been Friday, but Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius pushed it back at the request of Republican governors.

Christie said Friday he might opt for a state-run exchange if the Obama administration can answer questions on costs.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)