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Legislative Action Needed to Reduce the Burden of Cancer on Wisconsinites

Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Wisconsin Government Relations Director Sara Sahli

January 4, 2023

MADISON, Wis. – “As lawmakers dive into the 2023 legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) urges legislators to prioritize passing legislation to ease the burden of cancer on Wisconsinites.  

“The legislature should act to support policies to preserve funding and access to BadgerCare for low-income individuals and families. They should advocate for extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months and expand Medicaid eligibility up to 138% of the federal poverty level. 

“Furthermore, the legislature should advocate for insurance benefit reform that would remove barriers to prescription drug access. They should require all payments made by patients - directly or on their behalf - be counted toward their overall out-of-pocket maximum payment or deductible. Many Wisconsinites face high out-of-pocket costs for their prescription drugs, and copay assistance programs are critical to helping patients access the needed therapies. Passing this legislation would ensure Wisconsinites receive the total value of prescription drug assistance to afford their treatments. 

“Finally, as the legislature makes its way through the budget process, ACS CAN encourages our elected officials to prioritize increasing investment in tobacco cessation and education programs by $5 million annually and maintaining funding for the state’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Program. These programs are proven to reduce cancer incidence and improve cancer outcomes.  
“Some of the most critical cancer decisions are not made in the doctor’s office, but instead they are made in the Statehouse. The leadership of lawmakers is vital to defeating this disease. ACS CAN looks forward to working with them to advocate for policies, laws and regulations that will reduce the burden of cancer in Wisconsin and on the people living in their districts.”    

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About ACS CAN 

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org

 

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