Vermont became the first state on Monday to publish the rates it would charge people who don't currently have health insurance to get coverage - a key step toward establishing the health exchanges that are central to the federal health care law known as Obamacare. Health officials said Monday the rates are comparable to current commercial rates.

The legislation establishes a consumer marketplace Exchange that is part of the federal Affordable Care Act. All individuals and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees would be required to get their coverage from a policy sold on the Exchange beginning in 2014.

Vermont lawmakers had barely taken their seats on the first day of the legislative session when more than 200 advocates for single-payer health care rallied at the Statehouse and met with legislative leaders.

The state was at odds with the EPA and Rutland aldermen losing confidence in their police chief were among the top stories this week.