PORT ORCHARD — Open enrollment for many health insurance plans in this state closes the day following a timely public forum on the issue that’s set for Saturday, Dec. 14, at PUD No. 3 in Shelton.

The forum, “Health Insurance Choices and Legal Protections for Washingtonians,” will take place that day from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the agency, 2621 Johns Prairie Road in Shelton.

Finding quality health insurance at an affordable price ranks high with voters in local and national surveys. In Washington state, the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC) is responsible for ensuring that insurance companies follow the rules and consumers get the coverage for which they’ve paid.

Steve Valandra, OIC deputy commissioner and tribal liaison, will describe at the forum how the commission helps consumers find the appropriate insurance for their budgets and protects consumers from fraud. AnnaLisa Gellerman, OIC chief deputy commissioner for legal affairs and policy and legislative affairs, also will speak on Saturday.

The 35th Legislative District Democratic Party Committee is sponsoring the forum.