Section 1115 Demonstration Waiver-BadgerCare Reform

Rewarding Work: BadgerCare Reform

DHS has launched the application process for the Section 1115 BadgerCare Reform Demonstration Waiver Amendment, which includes policy changes aimed at helping more people move from government dependence to true independence by encouraging work and providing incentives for healthy lifestyles. Amendments to the Section 1115 Demonstration Waiver, known as the BadgerCare Reform Demonstration Waiver, are reforms that build on Governor Scott Walker’s “Wisconsin Works for Everyone” initiative, aimed at helping more people move into employment. These reforms affect non-pregnant adults without dependent children who are mentally and physically able to work, and who are receiving government-funded health care benefits. It also assists BadgerCare Plus members who are battling addiction. The reforms are based on changes in state law under 2015 Wisconsin Act 55. DHS must obtain approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) before these changes can take effect.

Section 1115 demonstrations and waiver authorities in section 1915 of the Social Security Act are vehicles states can use to test new or existing ways to deliver and pay for health care services in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Learn more about all current and concluded state programs authorized under these authorities.

Two public information sessions were held to provide information about the waiver and to collect comments from the public regarding the waiver request. All public comments were due by May 19, 2017. Details of the waiver amendments can be found in the waiver documents below.