MADISON– Governor Tony Evers signed into law a bill that would provide prerelease Medical Assistance program coverage to incarcerated individuals (2025 Assembly Bill 604, now 2025 Wisconsin Act 233). The new law directs the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to submit a request for a waiver of federal Medicaid law to provide this coverage, which would cover case management services, medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorder, and supply of medications for up to 90 days before release. Rep. Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) co-sponsored the bill and released the following statement:
“2025 Assembly Bill 604 is a bill I am proud to have gotten across the finish line. I know this bill was being watched closely by many of my constituents in both the medical community, and the criminal justice reform community. During the Committee on Mental Health hearing on this bill, we heard hours of supportive testimony from formerly incarcerated individuals, medical professionals, local governments, and other activists outlining how important this coverage will be for providing incarcerated individuals with the care they need. I commend Governor Evers for signing this bill into law to provide prerelease Medical Assistance coverage to incarcerated individuals.
“Wisconsinites deserve quality, affordable healthcare, and that includes incarcerated individuals. Prerelease Medical Assistance coverage will allow incarcerated individuals to continue treatment for substance use disorder and other health and mental health conditions, allowing them to maintain care during reentry, reducing recidivism, and lowering costs. I am a proud co-sponsor of this bill, and to have played a part in getting this bill signed into law. Forward, together.”
Rep. Vining represents the 13th Assembly District, which includes Elm Grove, and parts of Wauwatosa and Brookfield. For more information visit Rep. Vining’s website here.
