Early Detection Saves Lives Coalition: Celebrates signing of Gail’s Law

Governor Evers signs bipartisan, lifesaving breast cancer screening legislation into law

[Madison, WI] – The Early Detection Saves Lives Coalition today celebrated Governor Tony Evers’ signing of Gail’s Law, following the bill’s unanimous passage by the Wisconsin State Assembly and overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of the Legislature. The new law represents a major step forward in eliminating financial barriers to lifesaving breast cancer screenings for women across Wisconsin.

Gail’s Law ensures coverage for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast cancer screenings for women with dense breast tissue and other high-risk factors and eliminates the significant out‑of‑pocket costs that often delayed early detection. Similar laws have been enacted in roughly three-quarters of states across the country. The bill takes effect “on the first day of the 4th month beginning after publication” and insurance plans will have until January 1, 2027 to comply, which is the start of the new plan year.

Named in honor of the late Gail Zeamer, a fierce patient advocate from Neenah, Gail’s Law reflects years of advocacy to ensure that women in Wisconsin can access additional imaging to complete breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Early detection remains one of the most effective tools to improve breast cancer outcomes and survival rates.

“This is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when lawmakers put patients first,” said Dawn Anderson, state policy coordinator for the Wisconsin Breast Cancer Coalition. “Gail’s Law will save lives by ensuring women can access the screenings they need, when they need them, without cost standing in the way. Today honors Gail’s legacy and represents a major step forward for families across Wisconsin.”

“Gail’s Law is a decisive step toward closing a critical gap in women’s health,” said Jyoti Gupta, PhD, President & CEO of Women’s Health and X-ray, GE HealthCare. “No woman should face delays in breast cancer diagnosis because she cannot afford the imaging needed to complete her screening. By removing cost barriers to medically necessary exams, Wisconsin is helping ensure breast cancers are detected earlier, when treatment is most effective and survival rates are highest. This law honors Gail Zeamer’s tireless advocacy, and GE HealthCare is proud to stand with the Early Detection Saves Lives Coalition to expand access to lifesaving breast cancer screening across the state.”

“Gov. Evers’ signing Gail’s Law today signals recognition of the deeply personal nature of cancer for so many, including for the lawmakers and advocates who supported this bill and brought it to his desk,” said Sara Sahli, Wisconsin Government Relations Director, American Cancer Society Action Network. Removing the financial barriers that prevent too many from getting the supplemental breast cancer screenings they need will save lives. Early detection leads to better health outcomes and less costly treatment. But most importantly, this bill will reduce the harm caused by cancer for many families across Wisconsin.”

“We commend Governor Evers and the Wisconsin Legislature for prioritizing the early detection of breast cancer by eliminating the barriers to medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging services,” said Deandrea Newsome, Regional Manager State Policy and Advocacy, Susan G. Komen.

“This legislation allows women and their healthcare providers to make evidence-based decisions about the most appropriate screening based on their risk,” said Dr. Jennifer Bergin, radiologist, and member of the Wisconsin Radiological Society, Committee for Breast Imaging. “As a radiologist, I see firsthand how critical supplemental and diagnostic imaging can be for women with dense breast tissue and those at elevated risk. Mammography alone is not always enough. By removing financial barriers, Gail’s Law ensures that medical decisions are guided by clinical need, not cost. More cancers will be detected earlier, when treatment is most effective and outcomes are the best.”

The coalition extends its sincere thanks to Governor Evers for his leadership and commitment to women’s health, as well as to the bipartisan group of legislators who championed the bill throughout the legislative process. In particular, the coalition thanks Senator Rachael Cabral-Guevara, Representative Amanda Nedweski, Representative Cindi Duchow, Senator LaTonya Johnson, and Representative Lisa Subeck – and all Senate and Assembly co‑authors, Republicans and Democrats, who worked together to advance this important measure.

To learn more about Gail’s Law and its impact, visit EarlyDetectionWI.com.