The Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) wishes to thank Governor Tony Evers and members of the State Legislature for approving key biennial budget provisions that allocate much needed funding to help assisted living providers deal with increased labor market wages and inflation. (see Legislative Fiscal Bureau Budget Paper #420 Alternatives A1 and B2)

“I am truly grateful for the state budget investment of an additional $38,432,600 (All Funds) over the biennium in caregiver funding,” stated Michael Pochowski, President & CEO. “In addition, we are very appreciative of the continuation of the 5% rate increase to providers that
went into effect on January 1, 2022. As Wisconsin’s workforce crisis continues many assisted living facilities face significant staffing and financial challenges. These investments are necessary to maintain quality care and services to elderly individuals and those with disabilities. A special note of thanks to Governor Tony Evers, Senator Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma), Senator Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) and Rep. Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam).”

The Direct Care Workforce Funding Initiative provides additional funding for the direct care and services component of the Family Care program capitation rates to help recognize market wage increases for long-term care caregivers. Family Care is a state Medicaid waiver program that provides and pays for long-term care services for Wisconsin’s most vulnerable populations of frail elderly and individuals with disabilities. This action will target critically needed increases to address the long-term care workforce crisis. The Family Care Program serves more than 55,000 individuals in Wisconsin. (Family Care | Wisconsin Department of Health Services)

About the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA)

The Wisconsin Assisted Living Association (WALA) is the largest trade association in Wisconsin representing over 1,500 assisted living facilities. Our mission is to support assisted living communities, staff, and residents through advocacy, education, and service.

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