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SECRETARY DENNIS G. SMITH APPLAUDS SENATE APPROVAL OF BILL LIFTING FAMILY CARE ENROLLMENT CAP

MADISON—The Department of Health Services Secretary Dennis G. Smith today offered the following statement regarding the Senate passage of SB380, a bill to lift the enrollment cap on Wisconsin’s long-term care programs:

“Wisconsin is one step closer to again enrolling eligible elderly and individuals with disabilities in the Family Care program and fulfilling Governor Walker’s commitment to them. We appreciate the Senate’s efforts to move this legislation forward so our citizens can access coordinated long term care services and supports that allow them to live well in their communities. We want to thank Senator Vukmir and Senator Moulton in particular for their leadership in this important effort.

As the caps are lifted, we also are working with individuals, families, advocacy groups and providers to ensure this vital program is sustainable over time. The recently released sustainability proposals will strengthen long-term care programs for present and future citizens who need these services.

We look forward to our ongoing collaboration with all stakeholders to provide sustainable, cost-effective, quality care to the thousands of individuals who depend on these long-term care services, and hope the Assembly will quickly take action in passing legislation that lifts the cap.”

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Last Revised:  February 14, 2012