Contact: Katie Iliff, katiei@wisdems.org, 608-260-2417

MADISON – As chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, Senator Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point) is fast tracking radical anti-women’s health legislation while single handedly blocking a proposal to protect health coverage for people with pre-existing conditions. Senate Bill 37, also known as the Comprehensive Health Care Protection Act, would safeguard federal health protections at the state level, and ensure families and seniors are able to access the care they need without going bankrupt. Despite overwhelming public support, the bill has languished in Sen. Testin’s Health Committee for months.

“It is appalling that Senator Testin would fast track radical anti-women’s health proposals while blocking access to affordable and quality health coverage,” said Katie Iliff, SSDC Executive Director. “His misplaced priorities come at the expense of the 2.4 million Wisconsin residents living with pre-existing conditions. When push comes to shove, he would rather side with wealthy special interests and out-of-state insurance executives over the health and well being of local families.”

In addition to blocking protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions, Sen. Testin has established a pattern of ignoring children, families and seniors who lack access to affordable health care. Already this session Sen. Testin has blocked crucial investments in mental health treatment facilities, veteran nursing homes, and a cancer research facility.

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