Madison, WI – The Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association (WPHCA), on behalf of the state’s Community Health Centers (CHCs), celebrates the conclusion of the legislative session and enactment of essential bipartisan health legislation that will improve the well-being of Wisconsinites including:
· 2025 Senate Bill 23 now WI Act 102 – Extending eligibility of Medicaid coverage for postpartum women (enacted March 18)
· 2025 Assembly Bill 604 now WI Act 233 – Medicaid coverage for incarcerated individuals (enacted April 8)
· 2025 Assembly Bill 80 now WI Act 232 – Ratification of the Social Work Licensure Compact (enacted April 8)
· 2025 Assembly Bill 759 now WI Act 240 – Eligibility to receive occupational credentials for
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, also known as Dreamers, allowing individuals to pursue health professions and other high-need careers to access state licenses (enacted April 9)
These bills will improve maternal and child outcomes by facilitating continued coverage and improved access to preventative care, open new avenues for mental health and Substance Use Disorder treatment and coordination of services, and mitigate health care workforce challenges by bringing fresh talent into the workforce pipeline. According to 2024 data, 58% of CHC patients in Wisconsin were enrolled in Medicaid and 17% were uninsured. CHCs are therefore highly invested in strengthening Medicaid program benefits and coverage, along with addressing coverage and care gaps in alignment with their commitment to serve all patients regardless of insurance status.
This session, the State also increased its investment in CHCs through the biennial budget, adding $1.2 million in new funds annually to the CHC State Grant thanks to leadership from Sen. Testin, Rep. Novak, and Joint Finance Committee members. WPHCA extends its deep gratitude to both Republican and Democratic legislative champions, Governor Evers, patients, and partners for their steadfast dedication to common sense legislation that will improve the lives of Wisconsinites and recommits to advancing policy priorities that help all Wisconsinites achieving their highest health potential.
