American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Award Honors Top State Advocacy Team of the Year 

Washington, D.C., – Sept. 15, 2026 – Wisconsin was recognized as the country’s top state advocacy team by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in honor of their exceptional work advocating for cancer-fighting public policies.

ACS CAN presents this award to combined staff and volunteer teams that have worked together to make a significant impact in the organization’s goal to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

“This incredible team of Wisconsinites has shown unwavering dedication to improving the lives of everyone in Wisconsin affected by cancer,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Through their tireless advocacy, they’ve helped bring hope and progress to families across the state and beyond. ACS CAN is honored to stand alongside them and deeply appreciates their passion and commitment to ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

The volunteers and staff at ACS CAN Wisconsin achieved historic legislative victories, both proactive and defensive, that reflect years of tireless education, engagement, relationship building and partnerships. The campaigns were smart, measured, calculated and brought to bear everything ACS CAN offers as an organization with every function utilized and include:

–       Passage of Gail’s Law: This legislation eliminates cost sharing for follow-up breast exams like MRIs and ultrasounds for women with dense breast tissue or those who are at high risk and diagnostic breast exams for women who display signs or symptoms of breast cancer.

–       Passage of Postpartum Medicaid: Wisconsin became the 49th state to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 full months after giving birth.

–       Defeated Tobacco Bars: This would have allowed smoking of cigars and brown cigarettes back in Wisconsin Taverns. Vetoed by Governor.

–       Defeated Farm Bureau Health Plans: This bill would have authorized our state’s Farm Bureau to sell unregulated health “insurance” products. Committee hearing in Senate Insurance, no progress beyond that.

–       Defeated IQOS Tax Break: This bill would have modified the excise tax (lowered) on products that involve heating tobacco without combustion.

–       Maintained B&C and Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Funding

The award was presented on Sept. 13 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. More than 750 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones met with their elected officials and urged them to prioritize cancer research and prevention programs, along with other proven cancer-fighting policies, highlighting the real-life impact these investments have on patients, families and communities nationwide.