MADISON – Assembly Democrats are urging Republicans to bring forward votes on Gail’s Law and postpartum Medicaid coverage, both of which have overwhelming bipartisan support, to expand access to lifesaving breast cancer screenings, protect Wisconsin women’s health, and lower costs for Wisconsinites. Rep. Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire) released the following statement:
“Republicans are preparing to pack up this week and end the session early, but the work of this Legislature is not finished. Wisconsin women are counting on us to act. Expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage and passing Gail’s Law are common sense steps that protect lives and lower health care costs.
“Postpartum Medicaid expansion ensures new mothers can access the care they need during a critical time.Wisconsin women are dying unnecessary deaths. It is our job to do whatever is in our power to prevent these by expanding coverage for healthcare. It is a straightforward policy that supports families and keeps women healthy. Wisconsin mothers deserve health care, and this bill helps deliver it.
“Gail’s Law expands access to lifesaving breast cancer screenings. Anyone who has held the hand of a loved one who is dying from cancer knows how devastating delayed detection can be. To sit here and not bring this bill to a vote, a bill that will save lives, is shameful.
“These bills have overwhelming bipartisan support, with more than 70 co-sponsors for postpartum Medicaid expansion and more than 60 for Gail’s Law. Blocking them from a vote is costing Wisconsinites their health and, in some cases, their lives.
“Instead of leaving early, we should be leading. It is time to bring these bills to the floor and do our job for Wisconsin women.”
