For Immediate Release: July 6, 2012
Contact: Rebekah Sweeney: (608) 266-3790
Representative Jorgensen calls for a WI-specific insurance exchange plan as deadline approaches
MADISON – Today State Representative Andy Jorgensen (D-Fort Atkinson) expressed his concern over Governor Walker’s plan to not move forward with implementing a Wisconsin-specific health insurance exchange program.
“The Governor must have a reason for his inaction and I want to hear it,” said Jorgensen. “The people of Wisconsin deserve an answer with specific details as to why the Governor intends to not move forward on this important issue.”
Walker’s statements that he would not give the state a chance to administer its own individualized plan would mean that the state could be put into a “one-size fits all” exchange program that would not take into account Wisconsin citizens’ distinct needs and situations. As the November 16, 2012 deadline to have a plan drafted draws near, Jorgensen urges the Governor to put the people of Wisconsin first.
“A plan specific to our state’s individual needs is a must. There is no reason Governor Walker should not be working toward creating a Wisconsin tailored exchange plan for health insurance,” stated Jorgensen. “Senator Tim Cullen took the correct approach in his letter to the Governor last week. The Senator’s experience as the Health and Social Services Secretary under former Governor Tommy Thompson clearly lies in this field and it would be wise to heed his warning. I, also, wrote a letter this week. In my letter I stressed the importance of communication with the legislature over matters, such as healthcare, that affect the entire state.”
Jorgensen went on to say, “This is not a partisan issue, the Governor should realize that preparing for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) whether it is ultimately upheld or repealed is in the best interests of every Wisconsin citizen. By drafting our own plan we ensure that if the ACA is upheld we can have our own say in how it is run in this state and if it is repealed we were prepared just the same.”
By implementing a well thought-out system specific to Wisconsin, the state would be able to aid its people and make sure they are informed of different health care insurance options. The insurance exchanges are a way for Wisconsin to take control over the way the ACA is run within the state and allow for its citizens to have the information to decide for themselves.
“It would be short-sighted for the Governor to let this opportunity slip through his fingers. In determining what is best for the people of Wisconsin, we should choose to draft our own plan rather than letting a generic exchange take effect,” said Jorgensen. “I look forward to working with Senator Cullen, Governor Walker, and other legislators, either Republican or Democrat, who see it as a priority to follow the law and implement a Wisconsin-specific insurance exchange plan. My door is open for any discussion concerning this issue.”
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