The budget repair bill would give the Department of Health Services the ability to make changes to current Wisconsin law and rules with minimal Legislative oversight. This issue has been lost in the larger outcry regarding collective bargaining for public employees. We believe that many Republican legislators do not support this portion of the bill, but it will help them to hear from their constituents. Removing this language from the bill does not mean that disability advocates are unwilling to work on changes to the Medicaid program; it just means that it will be elected officials who will make the final decisions on those changes that are currently defined in statutes and rules. And it will mean there will be a democratic process, with the opportunity for public hearings, as part of that decision-making.

The following message is forwarded from the Save BadgerCare Coalition

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Send a message to your Representatives!

As it stands now, Governor Walker's co-called "Budget Repair" bill, if passed, at least 63,000 Wisconsinites will lose the basic health insurance they currently have. Folks who rely on SeniorCare, FamilyCare, children's waivers and other vital Medicaid programs could lose health benefits as critical decisions about cost-sharing, benefits and eligibility will move behind closed doors. The Department of Health Services (DHS) would be allowed to supersede existing state laws that ensure families have access to basic health care in Wisconsin and that support older adults and persons with disabilities. More importantly, the bill severely limits the ability for the public to have any input in the changes to rules on these critical Medicaid programs.

Even if you've already sent 1 or 2 messages already, take a few moments now to send a message loud and clear to the members of the State Senate and State Assembly to "Remove the Medicaid Provisions from the Budget Repair Bill." Wisconsin simply can't afford to undermine 1.2 million Wisconsinites who rely on Medicaid in all forms.

Fact sheet (.pdf) on what's at stake for BadgerCare in the Budget Repair Bill.

5 Things You Can Do Today to Support Medicaid & BadgerCare!

1. Add your name to our online petition and help spread the word.
2. "Like" the Save BadgerCare Coalition on Facebook and encourage your friends, family, neighbors and co-workers to do the same.
3. Share your story - explain why protecting and investing in Medicaid and BadgerCare is important to you!
4. Link here (.pdf) to take note of how many working families in your county depend on BadgerCare for their basic health care.
5. Call 800-362-9472 to reach your state representatives and tell them "Remove the Medicaid Provisions from the Budget Repair Bill"

Thank you for taking time to speak out. Be sure to forward this email to others letting them know that MEDICAID MATTERS! For more information and to join the Save BadgerCare Coalition, visit: www.savebadgercare.org.