(AP) — Some lawmakers are urging Nebraskans to enroll in a health insurance plan under the federal health care law by the end of the month.

Residents have until March 31 to enroll in health insurance this year through the federal health insurance marketplace. They can still sign up after the deadline if they get married, divorced or have another qualifying life event.

Those who are uninsured could face a fine of $95 or 1 percent of their income, whichever is higher.

Sen. Jeremy Nordquist of Omaha says obtaining coverage helps individuals and families avoid high medical expenses, and will drive down the cost of insurance.

The federal government says more than 25,000 Nebraskans enrolled between Oct. 1, 2013 and March 1.