Republicans Protect Long Term Care

Wednesday, Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee introduced a plan that would save valuable long term care programs relied on by Wisconsin's most vulnerable citizens. I am happy to say the plan restores Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) statewide and continues the IRIS program.

These programs provide long-term care services to qualifying low-income individuals who are elderly, physically disabled, or developmentally disabled and who are eligible for medical assistance. My office received an outpouring of support for these important programs, and I support their continuation wholeheartedly. 

The protections were included by the committee as part of a new FamilyCare Plus program which would build upon the successes of FamilyCare, and make the program sustainable long-term. Overall, the new program would preserve ADRCs, IRIS, local districts and long-term care districts, while incorporating reforms like integrated care, competition and statewide expansion.

These changes will be included in the final state budget which will need to pass both the Senate and Assembly before being signed into law.

Update on the Repeal of Prevailing Wage

 

A bill that would repeal the prevailing wage law in Wisconsin got the stamp of approval from the Assembly Labor Committee on Wednesday. I am a strong supporter of repealing prevailing wage and am a cosponsor of the bill. The measure already passed the Senate Committee on Labor & Government Reform on May 5th, where I had the opportunity to vote in favor of advancing the bill. 

I have heard from constituents from around the 21st Senate District that feel the prevailing wage law needs to be eliminated and, as a cosponsor of the bill to repeal it, I couldn't agree more. Prevailing wage inflates costs for government projects, and the repeal could save state and local taxpayers up to $300 million a year according to the non-partisan Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance. It is unclear whether the full Senate and Assembly will have the opportunity to vote on the repeal, but Governor Walker has promised to sign the bill into law if it makes it to his desk.  

 

Social Impact Bonds Symposium



 

Farewell to a loyal friend and loving companion